Governor Brad Little has ordered that all U.S. and State of Idaho flags at all state buildings and facilities be lowered to half-mast immediately to honor former Governor Phil Batt.
Gov. Batt passed away peacefully Saturday, March 4 at his home, it was his 96 birthday. Flags will remain at half-mast until his interment.
Gov. Batt was the 29 Governor of Idaho and served from 1995 to 1999 he was also the 35 lieutenant Governor of Idaho from 1979-1983. He was the chair of the Republican Party in Idaho from 1991 – 1993, he served as the 34 president pro tempore of the Idaho senate from 1976-1978, he was a member of the Idaho senate from 1967-1979 and again from 1985-1988, he was also a member of the Idaho house of representatives from 1965-1967.
“Governor Phil Batt was the epitome of a public servant, having served as Governor, Lt. Governor, and Senator. His legacy is distinguished by his unrelenting human rights leadership, determined fiscal conservatism, and enduring love of Idaho. “It is fitting Phil Batt was born and passed on ‘Idaho Day,’ the celebration of the anniversary of the day President Abraham Lincoln created the Idaho Territory in 1863. Teresa and I send our love and condolences to his wife Francee, his children, and many, many friends,” Governor Little said.
“Governor Phil Batt was the embodiment of a dedicated public servant. A man of fairness and decency, Gov. Batt served our community with a commitment to protect our lands, fight for human rights, and ensure fiscal responsibility. While his time in office predated my own, Gov. Batt was there when my political career first began; he appointed me to a federal task force that worked to keep Idaho a viable and influential voice in the lands process to uphold the beauty and wonders of our great state. Sarah and I send our love and condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.” Lt. Governor Scott Bedke said.
“Idaho Governor Phil Batt will be remembered as a strong and thoughtful leader, dedicated to the people of Idaho and advancing human rights in the state. His longstanding friendship and mentorship to me helped guide my professional and personal life. Back in 1981, I was asked and agreed to serve as the co-chair of the Bonneville County campaign for Phil Batt when he began his first run for governor. And I have learned much from him over these last four decades. As Idahoans remember him, much will be said about his legacy to Idaho and the debt of gratitude that we owe to him. His was a life well-lived, and he will have my unending admiration and respect. My prayers are with his wife, Francee, his family and all who were impacted by his great leadership in the state of Idaho.” Senator Mike Crapo said.
“Phil Batt was a close personal friend to both Vicki and me and one of my earliest mentors in the State Senate. He was a titan in Idaho politics and cared deeply about our great state. From his long and distinguished service in the Idaho Senate to his years as Governor, Phil set the course and is respoonsible for the Idaho we know and love today. He will be missed.” Senator Jim Rich said.
“If anyone has been universally respected in Idaho it is Phil Batt. A farmer at heart, he was a champion for working people. And as one who literally worked Idaho soil he always protected Idaho resources. A musician who played his clarinet with Gene Harris at Peter Scott’s restaurant, he also brought harmony to many of Idaho’s challenges. The legacy of Governor Batt is a man who personified decency, civility, and respect for all people. Idaho is stronger for the service, devotion, and affection of Phil Batt. Patricia and I send our condolences to Francee and the entire Batt family”. Governor Kempthorne
Governors Batt’s body will lie in state at the Capitol. Governor Littles Office will provide details in the coming days on how the public can pay their respects to the former Governor.
