ALLRED: Respected consensus builder

| October 13, 2010 4:53 AM

I became acquainted with Keith Allred when in 2004 I joined Common Interest, the citizen advocacy group he created and led. I observed Keith engage in authentic, respectful dialogue with both Democrat and Republican legislators while the legislature was in session. He demonstrated integrity, scholarship and effectiveness as he worked to implement Common Interest objectives on behalf of its members.

Fundamentally Keith supported and encouraged in-depth research into the issues by Common Interest members to insure that the input received was informed. Common Interest would take action as an organization only when two-thirds of the members agreed upon a particular course of action.

I am convinced Keith Allred will bring his strong ability to create and build genuine consensus to the governor's office. I believe that he will truly be a governor for all Idahoans.

DOUGLAS FAGERNESS

Coeur d'Alene