In Ethics Tit-For-Tat, GOP Blasts Idaho Dems

The Idaho House’s top Republican leader suggested Democrats’ charges that the state’s dominant GOP has fostered a “culture of corruption” and “cronyism” could hurt efforts by the two sides to create an independent ethics commission.

House Speaker Lawerence Denney on Friday labeled the “culture of corruption” charge – levied by Idaho Democratic Party Chairman Larry Grant last week against Republicans including Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter – is incendiary language that will make it tougher for the two sides to work together.

Denney cited examples of what he termed Democratic ethical lapses that show neither party is immune to scrutiny.

House Minority Leader John Rusche said Denney’s letter underscores the need for an independent ethics commission, because restoring faith in government isn’t a partisan issue, rather one both sides should embrace.