BOISE, Idaho – Scott Bedke is announcing his candidacy to serve the people of Idaho as their next Lt. Governor. The announcement happened today (May 27, 2021) inside the Idaho State Capitol, where Bedke is the longest serving Speaker of the House in state history.
“Bureaucrats in Washington DC are launching an assault on Idaho’s way of life. I promise to defend against that incursion by bringing my values of family, faith, and hard work to the Office of Lieutenant Governor,” said Speaker Bedke. “As a proud constitutional conservative, I will continue to fight for cutting taxes, eliminating red tape, and making the right investments in education and transportation.”
“Scott Bedke is the fierce defender that the people of Idaho need to ensure big government stays out of our lives, schools, and churches,” said Governor CL “Butch” Otter, Campaign Chairman. “He’s a trusted and experienced leader who gets results and will never back down from an intrusive federal regime.”
Bedke’s roots run deep in the Gem State. The Idaho native graduated from Oakley High School and runs the family cattle ranch right down the road. He’s raised four children with his wonderful wife Sarah and is the proud grandfather of 14 beautiful grandchildren.
Bedke is living a life of service. The former Oakley City Council member started serving the people of District 27 as a Representative in 2000. Now in his 11th term, he still proudly represents the citizens Cassia and Minidoka Counties, while also working for all Idahoans as the Speaker of the House. Bedke was first elected Speaker in 2012 and every term since then, his Republican colleagues have chosen him as the leader of the entire House of Representatives.
In his time as Speaker of the House, Bedke has guided conservative budgeting that’s helped Idaho become one of the top state economies in the country. Just this year, under Bedke’s leadership, the Idaho Legislature passed the single largest tax cut in state history, a comprehensive plan to improve our roads and bridges, and smart investments in education. Speaker Bedke has also led the way in protecting Idahoans’ Constitutional rights, especially the 2nd amendment, and settled long-standing water disputes.
“Water is absolutely critical to this state’s economy and agriculture. We need an experienced leader to manage Idaho’s water issues and that leader is Scott Bedke,” said Margie Watson, Campaign Treasurer. “There is no one more qualified to safeguard Idaho’s water for generations to come.”
“In my two decades serving Idahoans, I have never forgotten who I work for. With your support, when I’m elected Lt. Governor, I will continue to lead with purpose and defend our state’s future,” said Bedke.
Read the full announcement.