Leaderless Idaho GOP looks to bridge divides

The Idaho Republican Party is searching for a new leader after a judge ruled that former chairman Barry Peterson’s term expired last month.

Peterson had sought an injunction preventing an election from being called, arguing that he should remain as chairman by default because the party’s June convention adjourned before electing a new leader.

The Idaho GOP will move forward with an election scheduled for this Saturday in Boise. Some local Republicans say they’re looking for a new who can bridge divides within the party.

“It’s just really been uncomfortable — all the infighting. We really need to get beyond that,” said Cindy Siddoway, a GOP national committeewoman.

Three people have announced their intention to run, including Steve Yates, a former adviser to Vice President Dick Cheney who now owns an Idaho Falls consulting business.

Yates said he could be the person to bring the party together.

“I don’t have deep roots in Idaho politics. In other words, I am not wedded to one side or another,” said Yates.

Also in the running are Mike Duff of Blackfoot and Douglas Pickett of Oakley, but other potential candidates could be announced at Saturday’s meeting.