In Idaho, politics is never passive. Even when we think we’re sitting one out, we’re still influencing the outcome. And right now, far too many Democrats and left-leaning moderates are convincing themselves that registering as Republicans to “participate” in the GOP primary Read More
Politics isn’t abstract for most Idaho families—it shows up in the monthly budget, the medicine cabinet and the phone calls to health providers. Lawmakers’ choices about taxes, health credits and Medicaid funding determine whether a paycheck stretches to cover groceries, whether a Read More
On December 2, one-fifth of city residents will choose our next mayor. The ballot may not contain your preferred candidate, or even your preferred view of government. Nonetheless, participation is the only way to preserve our democracy. Any resident, starting at age 18, who Read More
Once I learned that Idaho Falls’ mayoral race is headed to a runoff, I revisited the finalists’ websites to review their positions on managing the city’s growth challenges. Both candidates cite the need for “Smart Growth” or “strategic growth” solutions, which are Read More
In a time where national news seems to rule everyone’s mind, it becomes harder to get people to focus on state and local issues. With an election coming up in November (early voting runs from October 20 to 31), it becomes more Read More
I can’t remember a time when so many people have filed to run for local office. It’s encouraging to see people getting involved at the local level. I’ve been begging people for years to pay attention to what’s going on in town Read More

