Former Idaho Gov. Phil Batt, who also is a former chairman of the Idaho Republican Party, had this letter to the editor published in the Idaho Statesman today lauding Democratic congressman Walt Minnick:

'I appreciate Minnick's stand for responsibility'

"I didn't support Walt Minnick during his campaign for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Nevertheless, I did listen to his strong statements concerning fiscal responsibility. I didn't doubt his sincerity, but I thought he'd have to follow the big spenders, most of the time, once he became a member of the majority party in the House.

I'm sure Rep. Minnick knew that most Idahoans opposed the so-called "stimulus package." Yet, I believe the reason for his "no" vote was a clear conviction that it is shameful to load a crushing debt on future generations of Americans and to totally usurp state rights and responsibilities.

I don't yet know if I'll back Mr. Minnick for re-election, but I want him to know that I appreciate him standing up for Idaho."

PHIL BATT, Boise

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