Bieber seeks state rep post

A longtime Coeur d'Alene coach and teacher announced he is running as a Democrat for District 4 State Representative, House Seat B.

"It is vitally important to listen and understand what is being debated and participate in an amicable solution," Larry Bieber said in a press release. "This is what will guide me as your state representative."

The seat is currently held by Republican Rep. Paul Amador.

Bieber, of Coeur d'Alene, attended West Valley High School. He received a bachelor's degree in education from Eastern Washington State College enrolled in ROTC. After serving three years in the U.S. Army, he attended Portland State University and completed his master's degree.

He taught math and coached boys basketball and girls softball at Coeur d'Alene High School. He was named Coach of the Year in 1998, won several championships in softball and one in basketball, and is in the Idaho Athletic Hall of Fame.

Bieber said he will be a change agent for voter rights, funding for education and reform in academics and vocational transitions to provide an educated and qualified workforce.

"This will have extraordinary benefits throughout Idaho," he said.

Bieber said the duty of government is to ensure constitutional laws are upheld and citizen rights are protected.

"If you have a complaint about your rights being trampled, you need look no further than the majority in the State House and Senate, not the federal administration," he said.

He said he will do what is best for all Idahoans "filtering through the dog whistles and emotional buzzwords."

Bieber said he believes Democrats and Republicans can work together.

"I believe there are opportunities for amicable solutions," he said.

Idaho political candidates have until today, March 11, to submit their declaration of candidacy forms.

The primary election is May 17.