Rep. Bob Nonini, R-Coeur d'Alene, didn't win his race last night for leadership, challenging House Majority Caucus Chairman Ken Roberts, R-Donnelly, but Nonini said this morning, "I was glad I put my hat in the ring. I think our caucus deserved choices." He said he was proud of Rep. Cliff Bayer, R-Boise, for running as well; Bayer unsuccessfully challenged House Majority Leader Mike Moyle. Nonini said he thought having choices was "good for the system."

He said, "If they keep me as chairman of the education committee, its going to be another tough year." That's because of the likelihood that rather than just adding intent language to budget bills in the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee, JFAC will more heavily involve germane committees in policy decisions that accompany budget cuts. "I feel I have the experience in the four years I chaired that committee," Nonini said.