BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Lt. Gov. Brad Little says his travels across Idaho as the state government's economic emissary have opened his eyes to deep animosity toward the federal government.

Particularly in rural areas, Little told hundreds gathered for the Associated Taxpayers of Idaho annual meeting in Boise on Wednesday, there's "quite a lot of hostility."

Idaho's two-term second-in-command told the group that some of this hostility bleeds over and colors people's attitudes toward state and local government. Consequently, Little said, those organizations must work harder to differentiate themselves and demonstrate they're working for regular citizens, even as Washington, D.C., appears mired in dissent and partisan bickering.

Anti-federal government rhetoric promises to play a big role in 2014 Republican primary elections, with Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter facing a challenge from state Sen. Russ Fulcher.

More From News Radio 1310 KLIX