Kevin’s blog

Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.

This week in the superintendent’s race: Catch up here

It’s been a newsy week. Here are all the links you need.

Judge dismisses parts of Big City Coffee’s lawsuit against Boise State

The university and President Marlene Tromp are dismissed from the $10 million lawsuit, Margaret Carmel of BoiseDev.com reported, but Big City can pursue its case against three past and former administrators.

Some big-name Monday endorsements

Former Gov. Butch Otter and former first lady Lori Otter endorse state superintendent’s candidate Debbie Critchfield. Gov. Brad Little endorses Scott Bedke in the lieutenant governor’s race.

Idaho will receive Secure Rural Schools funding boost

Schools in timber country stand to receive about $7 million, up roughly $900,000 from the preceding year.

It’s official: Governor’s debate is a no-go

Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin had originally agreed to the May 3 Idaho Public Television debate, but that was before Friday, when Gov. Brad Little backed out. When Little canceled, McGeachin reneged.

Gilbert endorses $300 million Reclaim Idaho K-12 initiative

“It’s the best investment you can make in our kids,” Democratic state superintendent’s candidate Terry Gilbert said of the initiative, with would put $300 million of additional income taxes into K-12.

Little refuses to debate ahead of GOP primary

The Republican is the first sitting governor in more than 30 years to refuse to take part in the Idaho Debates, which air statewide on Idaho Public Television.

Giddings withdraws from statewide televised debate

The Republican lieutenant governor’s candidate backed out after debate organizers would not give her an advance list of reporters on the panel.

Audio: The NIC turmoil, a quick explainer

On this week’s “Idaho Reports” podcast, Kevin Richert and host Logan Finney walk through the ongoing North Idaho College accreditation saga.

State Board spells out timetable to replace NIC trustees

In the wake of a series of resignations, the State Board will fill the majority of seats on the college’s governing board.