C.L. "Butch" Otter
Party: Republican
Age: 62
Personal: four grown children, two grandchildren
Education: Bachelor's degree in political science, Albertson College of Idaho
Professional: At J.R. Simplot Co., was a member of the board of directors, director of the food products division, president of Simplot Livestock, and president of Simplot International. Retired in 1993 after 30 years with the company
Political: Member of Congress, 2000 to present; lieutenant governor of Idaho, 1986 to 2000; Idaho House of Representatives, 1972 to 1974
Key issues: Energy: Otter favors a national energy policy aimed at greater independence, including incentives for domestic oil exploration, production and refining as well as for alternate energy and the "next generation" of nuclear reactors. Water: Wants to protect Idaho's water against "unwarranted encroachments," by working to increase capacity to store and use water for irrigation, hydropower, residential and industrial use and recreation. Also wants to protect state sovereignty and water rights from "misguided and over-reaching laws, activist courts and environmental extremists." Economy: Otter wants an economic climate focused on opportunity and freedom. "Too much of our time and money is taken up with unnecessary, burdensome and counterproductive government regulation," he said.
Money raised/spent: $394,030
Top contributors: Associated Builders and Contractors PAC, $10,000; National Beer Wholesalers PAC, $7500; American Medical Association PAC, $5,000; American Crystal Sugar Co. PAC, $5,000; National Association of Realtors PAC, $5,000; Tom Addis, $2,000; Dick Bennett, $2,000.
Quote: "Idaho has a bright future and our people have a world of opportunity to look forward to, but only if we keep the government from interfering."
Favorite book: "Liberty! The American Revolution," by Thomas Fleming
First priority if elected: Pass a national energy policy that creates the framework for sustainable growth, greater security and less dependence on foreign oil.
Website: http://www.otter4idaho.com/
