Democratic gubernatorial candidate officially resigns

A Democratic gubernatorial candidate has officially resigned from the Idaho Legislature to focus on her campaign.

Paulette Jordan had initially announced her resignation Feb. 7. She later backtracked she would not be stepping down from the elected office, but instead would appoint a substitute to replace her during the remaining legislative session.

State law, however, dictates that substitutes may only be appointed for temporary absences and Jordan will be gone for the entire session.

Jordan’s resignation was effective Wednesday. Her legislative seat will remain empty until a replacement is selected.

Regional Democrats will now be tasked with selecting three candidates and submit those names to Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter for final selection.

Jordan faces Boise businessman A.J. Balukoff in the Democratic primary election.