Run for Idaho Secretary of State Gets Crowded

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — There are now four people on the Republican side vying to replace retiring Secretary of State Ben Ysursa. Former Idaho lawmakers Mitch Toryanski of Boise and Evan Frasure of Pocatello will hold formal announcements today.

Already, former House Speaker Lawerence Denney of Midvale and chief deputy Ada County Clerk Phil McGrane have thrown in their hats ahead of next May's GOP primary. There may even be more interest: From up north, Rep. Luke Malek of Coeur d'Alene, a lawyer, is considering a run. In Democrat quarters, a similar gaggle hasn't emerged, yet.

But Rep. Holli High Woodings of Boise says she's thinking about it. Idaho's secretary of state is the top election official and keeps track of campaigns and lobbyists. The post also has a seat on the Land Board.