One cannot say “thank-you” to over 50,000 Idahoans easily.

I hope that this message will get out to all of those who supported my candidacy for superintendent of public instruction.

To everyone who displayed a sign, encouraged a neighbor to vote, and exercised his or her rights as citizens: my sincerest appreciation. To those who supported an opponent: thanks for participating in the process. To those who did not vote: please don’t complain if education in Idaho takes a direction that you do not like.

I’m proud of what we accomplished. A dedicated group of family, friends, and volunteers put in hours of work. We lacked the endorsements of certain Republican Party leaders and were out-spent in the campaign. We traveled the state, meeting with people and trying to communicate the message that the job is about children learning, not about ideology. Thousands of people responded. Thanks to all of you!

Rep. Steve Smylie