Idaho Politics: House
New Congressman’s Family Helps Out in D.C.
“Walt doesn’t have time to do this stuff. He’s already working, he’s full of energy as always, and he is spending time with his new staff,” said A.K.By Jill Kuraitis, 1-06-09
The Minnicks, March 2008
It’s a big day in Idaho politics.
In Boise, Governor Butch Otter will announce his pick to replace Jim Risch as Lieutenant Governor.
In Washington, D.C., Risch will be sworn in today as the newest senator from Idaho, replacing Larry Craig.
And Walt Minnick will be sworn in as a congressman representing the First Congressional District, replacing Bill Sali.
At Minnick’s new apartment, his family will finish up their three days of scrubbing walls and finding used furniture, unpacking things from Idaho, and double-testing the coffeepot.
(Full disclosure: Minnick’s wife, A.K., is a friend.)
Monday, they walked to a Starbucks to use the internet to turn in nearly 12-year-old daughter Denali’s homework, walked to a tailor to pick up a pair of suit pants, and walked to the Capitol for another tour of another section of the great building, among other errands and tasks.
“Walt doesn’t have time to do this stuff. He’s already working, he’s full of energy as always, and he is spending time with his new staff,” said A.K.
“He got emotional when he talked to them about Idaho. If someone from Idaho walks through the door, they’ll come first.”
I could hear an electric drill over the phone. “That’s Dixon (15) putting together a table for Walt,” she said.
Today, only Dixon and Denali will be allowed to stand with their father during the swearing-in. House rules exclude spouses from the privilege in order to make room for children. Immediately after the proceedings, the House convenes in session and three Minnicks will fly back to Idaho.
The family will probably stay in town rather than moving to D.C. “You can’t beat Boise High for a great education. And Idaho is an almost perfect place to raise children,” said A.K.
Apparently Denali thinks so, too. She told me she’s ready to come home. “I miss my gerbils Patches and Stewie. I miss my soccer. I hope life is normal back in Boise.”
I asked if she was looking forward to the ceremony, and she said, world-wearily, “Sure. But they don’t tell me anything I’m supposed to do so I’ll just smile.”
From the mouths of babes.
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