Former state Rep. Paulette Jordan wins Idaho Democratic primary in race to replace Republican Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter.
She is the first woman to become the Democratic gubernatorial nominee in Idaho.
If she wins the general election, Jordan would not only be the first woman to serve as Idaho governor but also the first Native American woman to serve in that position in any state.
The 38-year-old Jordan, who is a member of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, won Tuesday's primary against 72-year-old Boise businessman A.J. Balukoff.
Wondering just how unprecedented turnout for the Democratic Primary was in Ada County yesterday? Take a look. Going back to 1994 there's been nothing like it. #idpol pic.twitter.com/IKL10ym8h5
— Phil McGrane (@mcgraneforidaho) May 16, 2018
The last Native American to hold a statewide office in Idaho was in 1990, when Larry Echo Hawk ran as a Democrat for attorney general.
The open gubernatorial seat became a top political race when Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter announced he wouldn't seek a fourth term.
The following statement was released by Democratic Leadership in the Idaho State House and Senate:
“We congratulate Paulette Jordan for her victory tonight. The primary has energized so many voters around the state and we sincerely hope that momentum carries into the general election. Like so many Idahoans, Democrats value the opportunities that education and expanded access to quality healthcare can bring to our citizens. We support Paulette’s fight to bring those issues to the forefront so every Idahoan has a fair shot at success, prosperity and a healthy future.
We applaud A.J. Balukoff for running a vigorous campaign and know he will continue to be a leader on the issues that matter most to all Idahoans.”
