Here's a news item from the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A former Idaho representative beaten in the 2012 election is back in the House — not as an elected official, but as a hired hand for the Republican caucus. Former Republican Rep. Julie Ellsworth of Boise was hired by the House GOP to prepare talking points for representatives on issues to be considered during the session. Ellsworth served six terms in the House on two occasions but was defeated in November by Democratic Rep. Janie Ward-Engelking in Boise's District 18. House Majority Caucus Chairman John Vanderwoude said the caucus hired Ellsworth because she's a former majority caucus chairwoman and will be a quick study. Vander Woude says she's being paid with GOP caucus funds. Ellsworth said she'll handle internal House GOP communications, so she's unlikely to have much contact with Ward-Engelking.