Idaho lieutenant governor leaves Statehouse to return home

BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin has left the Statehouse and returned to Idaho Falls, leaving Senate President Pro-Tem Brent Hill to preside over the Senate and finish out the legislative session.

McGeachin, a Republican and the first woman elected to Idaho's second-highest statewide office, stopped presiding over the Senate Wednesday afternoon.

She told The Associated Press on Tuesday she was deeply concerned about not being present to help her adult children grappling with decisions involving their restaurant and other businesses in eastern Idaho that are being affected by the coronavirus.

"It's easier to make decisions as a family, that's why I want to go home," she said.

She also said she had elderly parents and worried about them.

In Idaho, the lieutenant governor is considered a part-time position. The office holder presides over the Senate, but only votes if there is a tie.

Democratic Sens. Maryanne Jordan and David Nelson left the Senate earlier this week, citing safety concerns about the virus.

Republican Senate Majority Leader Chuck Winder has said he won't condemn or criticize anyone for choosing to leave the Senate due to coronavirus concerns.