Despite a recent diagnosis of brain cancer, Idaho Senate Minority Leader Clint Stennett has announced that he is seeking a 10th term in office.
Stennett's two-year term ends at the end of 2008, and he will be up for re-election in November. He does not yet have a Republican opponent.
The filing period for legislative seats opened March 1 and will close March 21.
Stennett is the state's longest-serving minority leader, and serves on the Agriculture Affairs, Resources and Environment, State Affairs and Legislative Council committees.
Stennett made the announcement in a press release on Tuesday, March 11.
The release states that he intends to continue to promote environmental protection, create better educational opportunities for Idaho residents and support small businesses.
Stennett stated that he has been a champion of preserving Idaho's clean air and water, and an advocate for protecting access to rivers and public lands. He led the charge against locating a coal-fired plant in the Magic Valley, the release states.
"Idaho's rural heritage is tied to public-land access, clean air and water. I will continue to protect and enhance these values," he stated.
He added that he would continue to work for pre-K education, smaller class sizes, better pay for teachers and a stable funding base for public schools.
"Idaho has the lowest percentage of young people attending college in the U.S. I think that is a tragedy," Stennett said. "Anything that makes college more accessible and affordable will have my energy behind it."
Stennett also said he seeks to encourage investments and support for small businesses.
Retired after owning a number of successful media businesses, Stennett said he is enjoying the Senate as a full-time endeavor.
"I look forward to serving the four northern Magic Valley counties for another term in the Senate," he stated in the release. "I am honored and humbled by the opportunity and trust that the citizens of District 25 have vested in me."
Clint Stennett
