BOISE, Idaho — Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin made it official on Wednesday that she is running to be Idaho's next governor.
There has been a lot of speculation about whether the conservative Republican would challenge incumbent Republican Gov. Brad Little. She has been an outspoken critic of how the governor handled the coronavirus pandemic.
McGeachin kicked off her campaign in downtown Idaho Falls on Wednesday morning.
"What we have seen over the past year is unacceptable. The violations of our individual rights, our state sovereignty and our traditional conservative values are intolerable," McGeachin said prior to announcing her decision to run. "I refuse to stand by and allow these abuses to go unchallenged. That would be a disservice to our state and a violation of my sworn oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the state of Idaho."
McGeachin is the first female lt. governor to serve the state of Idaho. She will be seeking the Republican nomination for Idaho governor in the state's Republican Primary in 2022.
"I am not running for governor to be popular or because it is easy," she said. "This job is hard work and it requires making difficult decisions that aren't always appreciated. I am a proud Idahoan, a devout Christian, a proven and committed conservative, a devoted wife and mother, and — with your support — I will be the first woman to lead Idaho as governor. Seeking this position is a solemn duty, and it is not a decision I made lightly. I have made my decision prayerfully and with wise counsel from friends, family, and trusted advisors."
The Idaho Education Association slammed McGeachin's candidacy in a statement.
"The announcement today by Lieutenant Governor Janice McGeachin that she will be running for governor should be met with great distrust by all who support Idaho public schools, students, and professional educators," IEA President Layne McInelly said. "She does not and will not prioritize policies that benefit public education. In fact, there is no ambiguity in her track record—she consistently attempts to undermine education funding and degrade our dedicated educators. Public education is the pathway to success and opportunity for children across our great state. McGeachin as governor would represent a huge step backward for Idaho students and public schools."
McGeachin also planned stops in Boise and northern Idaho.
She spoke to a crowd of around 100 supporters at the Idaho Capitol for about 23 minutes. Her speech was streamed live on KTVB.COM and can be seen below.
The other campaign kick-off event will be held at Candlelight Christian Fellowship in Coeur d'Alene.
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