BALUKOFF: Time for him to lead

Idaho has an important decision to make. Who will we choose to lead us?

I have experience in the subject. My father was the governor of Idaho for 12 years. In my public life as a teacher and legislator I’ve always supported the Republican ticket.

But I cannot support Gov. Otter.

I know both men well.

Otter has become a career politician, symbol of the status quo, with a problem filled administration: sweetheart deals, prison scandals, education, tax commission, transportation, insurance exchange, juvenile correction, contracts, conflicts of interest, a checkered personal record; the list seems endless. Perhaps some are not his fault, but when the same thing happens over and over again, one can only conclude that the boss is somehow involved.

AJ Balukoff represents a sharp contrast. Quiet and hardworking, AJ lets his accomplishments speak for him. A successful businessman, his accounting firm was recognized as one of Idaho’s best. He brought professional hockey to Idaho, built one of our best hotels, and worked tirelessly for his community. He never collected a nickel of government salary for his dedicated work on the Boise School Board. Instead, he quietly led a school district that year after year led the state in nearly every educational category, forming excellent relationships between staff, parents, students and the community.

Balukoff listens and gets things done. How often does THAT happen in government these days?

In education, the governor slashed public schools by 22 percent and colleges 37 percent — but the students starting when the downturn hit will graduate before Idaho gets back on track. He won’t do his reforms or restore those cuts for at least five years.

Idaho can slog through another four years of mediocrity or we can elect someone with a proven record of personal integrity and leadership.

I am supporting AJ Balukoff.

R. STEVE SMYLIE

Meridian