Herndon’s deceptive playbook doesn't survive scrutiny

Scott Herndon’s playbook against Senator Woodward comes down to two tactics: brand a lifelong Republican as a Democrat and twist his opponent's voting record beyond recognition. Both are dishonest and don’t survive scrutiny.

Senator Woodward was raised in Bonners Ferry, served 21 years as a U.S. Navy submarine officer, and has represented District 1 as a Republican across three Senate terms. Former Senator Shawn Keough endorsed him. He is, by every measure, a traditional Idaho conservative.

Now consider Herndon. He moved from San Francisco to Idaho in 2004. He didn’t bother to register to vote here until January 2016. A dozen years on the sidelines before joining the central committee he has now highjacked.

Herndon promised, if his loyal club members endorsed him in the primary, he would turn over the chairmanship of the Bonner County Republican Central Committee stating he wanted to avoid a conflict of interest. His “endorsement committee” endorsed him (no surprise). According to the Idaho Secretary of State he remains the chairman. He is wielding party power machinery against a sitting Republican incumbent while breaking his own word.

A candidate who manipulates his opponent’s record and breaks promises about his own role isn’t fighting for Republicans. He’s thirsty for power and has mastered manipulation.

ANDY KEE

Sagle