May 15 is just a few days away and I hope you will join me in voting for Brad Little to be Idaho’s next governor.

I have known Brad for 30 years, long before elected to office. As a fourth-generation rancher from Oakley, I respect Brad’s deep ties to Idaho. I have also worked with him in the Statehouse, and I have watched him be thoughtful, and a pragmatic leader and opinion maker.

Idaho is very different than it was when our great-grandfathers settled here, yet many of the same issues are as important today as they were then. We are the fastest growing state in the nation. Our abundant natural resources will be stretched as our population grow. But I don’t worry with Brad leading Idaho.

“Protecting Idaho’s water” is not just a campaign slogan with Brad. He knows water is our most strategic resource, and it is essential for domestic, agricultural and industrial uses, and because of that conflict will inevitably arise. Brad has the depth of knowledge and experience to ensure that our water will be managed responsibly. Whether it’s a matter of the Hells Canyon relicensing agreement, the Columbia Basin River Treaty or any future negotiation.

The governor is responsible for hundreds of executive appointments, people who influence our daily lives. Brad will make these appointments with forethought and display prudence and good judgment when handling any matter that comes before him. Education, a competitive tax structure, or any of the myriad of issues we face, Brad can be trusted for continued success.

Brad’s focus is always what’s in the best interest of our children and grandchildren. I will not have to worry about Idaho’s future if Brad Little becomes our next governor.

Scott Bedke,

Oakley Rancher and Speaker of the House