Opinion: It’s time to put Idaho voters first
As a fourth-generation Idaho rancher, I’ve witnessed a lot of changes in our state. But one thing that’s stayed the same is my love for this land and the people who call it home. And like most born and raised Idahoans, I expect our elected leaders to keep Idaho, Idaho. Sadly, that’s not what’s happening.
Instead of listening to the needs of their constituents, politicians are driven by out-of-state, big-money donors and special interest groups. These donors have the resources to fuel political power grabs and push their own agendas, while we’re left dealing with the problems that never seem to get addressed—like access to healthcare, rising costs, and the preservation of our agricultural way of life.
I’ve voted in every election since I was 18 because I believe in doing my part to make our state better. But there’s one thing I am: an independent voter. I’ve always considered myself an independent because I care about what’s best for Idaho, not about partisan politics. But since 2011 when political elites closed our primaries, I’ve been forced to pick a side. I joined the Republican Party just to have a chance to vote.
Bingham is a one-party county, and the choices are all on the Republican ballot. I’ve chosen to affiliate with the GOP because I believe my vote should be heard. But there are 5,000 unaffiliated voters in Bingham county who won’t do that, meaning their voices are completely unheard.
Why should I have to join a party I don’t agree with just to have a say in who represents me? It’s not fair, and it’s not right. That’s why I’m firmly supporting Proposition 1, the Open Primaries Initiative.
Proposition 1 will open up our primary elections so every Idahoan, with or without a party, has the chance to vote. It’s a simple solution that gives voters more choices and a real voice in our elections. And that’s what the people in power don’t like.
It’s no wonder the opposition to Prop 1 is being funded by wealthy elites and powerful politicians. We’re seeing it now with big money paying for fancy billboards and ads pushing fear mongering messages. They’ve had control of Idaho’s political system for over a decade and they don’t want to give it up. They’re comfortable with things as they are because it works for them. They want to keep raking in big donations and letting those donors set the agenda. But what about us? What about the farmers, ranchers, small business owners, teachers, and tradesmen who make this state run?
You’re going to hear a lot of scare tactics from these politicians and elites in the coming weeks. They’ll say that Proposition 1 is dangerous or that it’ll ruin Idaho’s way of life. Don’t believe them. What they’re really afraid of is losing the power they’ve held onto for too long. Proposition 1 is about giving that power back to the people—back to voters like you and me.
I believe in Idaho, and I believe in the independent spirit that’s defined this state for generations. It’s time we took our elections back from the special interests and political insiders. Vote Yes on Proposition 1.
