American soldier and politician who served as the 32nd Governor of Idaho, known for his conservative policies and advocacy for state sovereignty. He played a key role in shaping Idaho's politics and economy.
Butch Otter, the 32nd governor of Idaho, served his state with dedication and passion for over a decade. From 2007 to 2019, he was at the helm of Idaho's government, making significant contributions to the state's growth and development.
Born on May 3, 1942, in Caldwell, Idaho, Butch Otter grew up in a small Roman Catholic family of limited means. His parents, Regina Mary (née Buser) and Joseph Bernard Otter, raised him and his siblings in various rural locations in the Midwest and West, where his father worked as a journeyman electrician.
Butch attended 15 different schools during his youth, finally graduating from St. Teresa's Academy (predecessor of Bishop Kelly High School) in Boise in 1962. A childhood accident involving gasoline severely burned his younger brother, forcing Butch to take a year off school. During this time, he worked as a janitor, theater usher, and lawn boy to support his family.
After high school, Butch briefly attended St. Martin's College in Lacey, Washington, before returning to Idaho to study at Boise Junior College. He eventually earned his B.A. in political science from the College of Idaho in 1967, making him the only member of his family to graduate from college.
Butch Otter's business experience spans over 30 years, with Simplot International, an agribusiness corporation founded by his then father-in-law, J.R. Simplot. Starting from a low-level position, he rose through the ranks to become the company's president.
In 1972, Butch began his political career, serving in the Idaho legislature. He was elected lieutenant governor in 1987, a position he held until 2001. From 2001 to 2007, he represented Idaho's 1st congressional district in the U.S. Congress.
In 2006, Butch Otter was elected governor of Idaho, a position he held for three consecutive terms until 2019. During his tenure, he focused on issues like education, healthcare, and economic development, earning him a reputation as a dedicated public servant.
Butch Otter's dedicated service to the state of Idaho has left a lasting impact on its development and growth. His commitment to education, healthcare, and economic development has improved the lives of countless Idahoans. As a businessman, politician, and family man, Butch Otter's legacy serves as an inspiration to future generations of leaders and public servants.
83 Years Old
The 31st Governor of Idaho, a lawyer-turned-politician, served as the state's chief executive from 2006 to 2007 and later as a US Senator. He's known for his conservative stance on issues like healthcare and education.
75 Years Old
A Republican senator from Idaho, serving since 1999, known for his work on financial and banking committees, and advocating for conservative policies.
74 Years Old
American businessman and politician who served as the 49th United States Secretary of the Interior, overseeing national parks, wildlife refuges, and natural resources. He's known for his environmental policies and conservation efforts.
99 Years Old
The 29th Governor of Idaho, a decorated war hero, served as a Republican governor from 1995 to 1999, known for his fiscal conservatism and education reform efforts.
Born in 1925
The 27th Governor of Idaho, a decorated war hero, and a dedicated public servant who championed education and infrastructure development in his state. He played a crucial role in shaping Idaho's growth and progress.
