The Idaho Democratic Party has hired a new executive director and is announcing that at a press conference today. 43rd State Blues was first up with the name of the new "cat herding poobah." Read the good news here.
Update: Here is the official announcement from the IDP:
Idaho State Democratic Party Chairman Keith Roark is delighted to announce the appointment of one of Idaho's best known and most experienced community leaders to serve as the state party's new Executive Director. Jim Hansen will lead an energetic staff not only into the critical 2008 campaign season, but beyond this year and into an unprecedented period of party rebuilding and unity.
"I am committed to rebuilding the Idaho Democratic Party from the ground up, precinct by precinct, county by county," Roark said. "The Idaho Democratic Party is standing up for the middle class, working to make government transparent and protecting the Idaho lifestyle against corporate greed. Idaho needs a strong and vibrant Democratic Party and Jim Hansen will provide exactly the kind of executive leadership and direction we need to make our voice heard at this critical time.
"With Jim Hansen as our Executive Director, the Idaho Democratic Party will be in a position to better help Idahoans become more active participants in shaping the future of their communities and their state. The huge public response to Democratic Caucuses two months ago demonstrates that Idahoans are not only ready for change, they are ready to participate in making that change happen.
"Jim served with distinction in the Idaho legislature, helped start and has managed a successful non-profit business for 13 years and has been involved in a host of community services. I am confident that Jim is the right person to help manage the party a growing, energetic, diverse and committed team of Democratic leaders in Idaho.
"It takes a special kind of person to handle the unique set of pressures that arise in a democracy as a party executive director. He must be unflappable, a good listener, a skilled facilitator; he must be smart and strategic. And, when everyone else is tired and frustrated, he must help us keep focused and moving forward.
"It is almost too much to ask of one person, but someone has to do it. Jim Hansen comes from a long line of successful Idaho politicians. I know he is capable, qualified and motivated toward success. I am honored to welcome him to this important position."
Jim will start work as Executive Director on April 15.

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