OTTER: Vote for experience

Two years ago, America elected Barack Obama to be president. Many worried about Obama's lack of any executive experience during that election. Now, two years later, Obama's approval ratings have already dropped below 50 percent. I've talked with a fair number of Obama supporters, and many have expressed what can be called "buyer's remorse."

Now, two years later, Democrat Keith Allred is running for the chief executive position of the state of Idaho. The problem is, Keith Allred has no executive experience. In fact, as far as we can tell, he's never been in charge of anything, unless you count the time he spent in Massachusetts lecturing students as a Harvard professor. But being governor isn't about pie-in-the-sky academic theories. It's about real world experience and leadership.

Much like Obama, Keith Allred doesn't have much real world experience, but he spends a lot of time lecturing voters about his theories on government. If you think the Obama presidency has been a success so far, then by all means, vote for Allred. I, on the other hand, will be voting for Butch Otter on Nov. 2. I hope you'll join me in supporting Butch.

KATIE PATTERSON

Coeur d'Alene