Candidates focus on budget, economy

SANDPOINT - The economy, jobs and education were atop the list of issues addressed by state legislative candidates at a Wednesday night political forum.

At the event were Rep. George Eskridge, R-Dover, and Democratic challenger Tom Hollingsworth of Bonners Ferry;  Rep. Eric Anderson, R-Priest Lake, and challenger Steve Elgar of Sandpoint. Sen. Shawn Keough, R-Sandpoint, who is unopposed, and Sen. Joyce Broadsword, R-Sagle, whose challenger was absent, also attended the event.

The candidates addressed a wide spectrum of issues, but the economy - including jobs and the state budget—  took center stage throughout the night.

Eskridge acknowledged there will be an almost-certain tightening of the fiscal belt in Boise during the upcoming session, but said he would like to  continue his work on tax relief for area residents.

"As many of you know, property tax reform and relief is my number one priority, and that will remain the same," Eskridge said.

Saying our economy is in "dire straits," Anderson warned the audience of across-the-board budget cuts and said addressing the budget shortfall will be among his highest priorities if reelected.

Hollingsworth also warned of cuts and used the state's transportation budget as an example of where residents will feel the shortfall.

"We can only fix what really needs to be fixed until we can get our economy going again," he said.

Taking a different approach to the question of the state's money squeeze, Elgar said instead of worrying solely on the budget shortfall, he will spend his time worrying about the welfare of the North Idahoans he hopes to represent.

Elgar, who is running for the third time against Anderson, brought a bit of levity to the discussion when he was asked what it would take to finally unseat his longtime rival.

"I'll need more votes than Eric," said a deadpan Elgar.

Keough also talked about the economy and said she wanted to give attendees a report card for what she has worked on, specifically on property tax reform.

"We've made significant gains that have resulted in money in your pockets," Keough said.

Broadsword, who addressed a variety of questions from area voters, said she was excited to get back to work for her constituents.

"I'm running because this is my opportunity to give back to the community and the state," she said.