Idaho Lt. Gov. Brad Little launched his re-election campaign today under a fine drizzle in Capitol Park in Boise; now, he's off to Idaho Falls and Coeur d'Alene for additional announcements. "Government should only be there to protect and create opportunity for individuals and businesses, not stand in their way," Little declared. Gov. Butch Otter and other elected officials joined Little for his announcement; Otter said people who think he's proposing budget cuts "without a heart" are wrong "since Brad took office as lieutenant governor, sitting at my side." Otter, who appointed Little to the office, praised Little's analyses and compassion as the state faces tough cuts, and urged his re-election. "It was up to me the first time - now it's up to you," he said.

Little said the state faces difficult decisions with budget cuts; he said he supports Otter's move to cut costs now - including cuts in health benefits for part-time state employees - and hope to increase state workers' pay when times improve. "The timing's terrible, but we've got a lot of things we've got to do between now and next February the timing's going to be terrible on," Little said. "We're looking at some other ones that are going to have serious ramifications."