Smyser Won’t Run for Idaho Superintendent

NAMPA, Idaho (AP) — Former Republican state Sen. Melinda Smyser says she won't run for Superintendent of Public Instruction. Smyser tells the Idaho Press-Tribune that she doesn't want to leave her post as a regional director for U.S. Sen. Jim Risch.

Superintendent Tom Luna announced Monday he wouldn't run for re-election. Luna says he talked to Smyser about running. In a statement to the newspaper, Smyser says she's flattered that others believe she's qualified to take on the challenge of succeeding Luna, but that she's declining the opportunity.

Republicans already in the race are Grangeville teacher John Eynon and American Falls principal Randy Jensen. They'll square off in the May 20 primary. The lone Democratic candidate so far is Jana Jones, who was beaten by Luna in 2006.