WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Extending the Club for Growth PAC's record to 6-1 for endorsed candidates in the 2006 cycle, Idaho primary voters last night chose Bill Sali as the GOP nominee for the 1st Congressional District race. The

Club for Growth PAC is the political arm of the nation's largest free market advocacy organization with more than 35,000 members.

"The Club for Growth PAC is proud to have played a significant part in ensuring Bill had the support he needed to campaign effectively on lower taxes and less spending -- and the voters have responded," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "Club for Growth members donated over $350,000 to his campaign and the Club's PAC ran a $133,000 independent expenditure TV ad during the closing days of the campaign."

"This is a huge win for Bill and another huge win for the pro-growth agenda," Toomey continued. "His belief in limited government, lower taxes and his willingness to stick to his principles as a legislator are traits desperately needed in Congress, especially at a time when congressional Republicans are struggling to hold onto their majority."

"As the state primaries march on toward November, we are seeing unprecedented signs that voters want change and are willing to elect those who will support pro-growth, free-market principles," Toomey continued. "Bill's victory last night is a clear indication of this."

With a few precincts still left to report, Bill won with 26% of the vote while his 5 other opponents were held to below 18% each. His primary win in this heavily Republican district almost assures he will replace Rep. Butch Otter in Congress after the general election.

"Idaho's 1st District constituents expect strong, principled leadership and I am confident that Bill Sali will deliver on that expectation once he is elected in November," concluded Toomey.