05/23/06 Idaho primary election day

The polls in Idaho are open from 8 am to 8 pm on this primary election day. Based on absentee interest and registration Idaho Secretary of State Ben Ysursa expects a low voter turnout today, probably in the neighborhood of 27 percent of registered voters. He says 33 percent turnout in a primary is considered good these days but he doesn't expect that despite some last minute interest in the First Congressional District. There are six Republicans and two Democrats in the field today, all seeking to replace Republican congressman Butch Otter who is in a four person GOP gubernatorial primary. Most political observers believe Otter will end up facing Democrat Jerry Brady in the November general election. Jim Risch, who could become Idaho's next governor any day now, is running again but as Lt Governor and Democratic voters will see the name of Larry LaRocco on the ballot. The former First District congressman is seeking the Lt Governor's office too. The voters will also pick the legislative candidates to run in the 35 Senate and 70 House elections but with no Democratic opposition in nearly 40 percent of the legislature races, today's winners are virtually assured of victory in the November general election. Again, polls are open until 8 pm tonight. Today's Idaho Ag News Bill Scott