Lottery official embraces term limits

Do you remember the old days when term limits were all the rage? The Democrats ran Congress. And the Republicans demanded term limits. I can’t remember too many Republicans who actually followed through on their promise to limit their terms. But the late, eccentric U.S. Rep Helen Chenoweth of Idaho was one of them. Give-‘em-Helen delighted some and enraged others by claiming, among other things, that black helicopters were used in Idaho to enforce the endangered species act. You can say what you will about her. But Helen kept her promise to serve only three terms representing Idaho’s 1st Congressional District. She could have represented the district for as long as she wanted to. Why am I telling you all this? David Keyes, former Bonner County Bee publisher, has term-limited his service on the Idaho Lottery. In December, the lottery vice chairman told the governor’s office that one, eight-year term was enough. He actually served 10 years, starting as a sub for someone else. The Senate has approved Grant Brackebusch of Kellogg to fill Dave’s spot. David’s return to private life has a perk. Tongue firmly cheeked, he said: ” It should be noted that I can now legally buy a Powerball ticket at Dairy Depot. Don’t be surprised if I win. I know the secret.” Were that it was that simple.

• David Keyes Facebook statement re: term limiting his service with the Idaho Lottery