Businessman Whalen To Face Nonini

Longtime Post Falls businessman Patrick Whalen announced today that he’ll challenge Sen. Bob Nonini, R-Coeur d’Alene, in the May GOP primary. “The Senate seat is an important leadership position that should be at the forefront of North Idaho’s economic development effort,” Whalen said in a statement. “To make that happen requires teamwork and consensus building. That is the different approach I want to bring to the table.” He said District 3 residents “need results and not just words”/ Betsy Russell , Eye on Boise. More here.

Question: Is Sen. Nonini vulnerable to a challenge from a traditional, conservative Republican?