Op-Ed: Small Elections, Big Consequences
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
I hope everyone reading this took time to vote last Tuesday. Local elections, whether for library or sewer boards, school levies, or fire and paramedic funding, may not seem as thrilling as races for governor or president, but they matter just as much. These ballot decisions directly affect your property taxes and the services your community receives.
As citizens of a republic, we hold the solemn right to decide how much we are taxed. Our nation was founded on the principle of taxation with representation, and elections like these give voters the power to determine whether certain services are worth the cost.
In Kootenai County, voters approved school levies and city bonds totaling tens of millions of dollars. That’s how our system works: voters decide, and we all live with the results. So when people complain next year about rising property taxes during campaigns for legislature or governor, remind them that this local election helped set those rates.
Meanwhile, voters in Star rejected a proposed fire district levy. That’s their right as well, and now local officials will need to find ways to deliver services without raising taxes.
We get the government we vote for. If you don’t participate, you’re letting your neighbors decide what kind of government you get. Ada County saw only 8% voter turnout. Even in politically engaged Kootenai County, turnout was about 30%. Both numbers should be much higher. Every election is a chance to make your voice heard and help shape the future of your community and our great state.
How do we get more people involved? One idea is to move all elections to even-numbered years. It would save money and reduce the burden on everyday citizens trying to keep up with constant voting cycles.
I understand that voters are tired. 2024 felt like a non-stop campaign season between the presidential race and the fight against Proposition 1 here in Idaho. But we can’t afford to rest. We have less than four years to get our country back on track, or risk losing it for good.
Last week, I joined Republican leaders from across the country at Trump National Doral to get an insider view of what’s happening in Washington. We were reminded that while President Trump’s 2024 victory was decisive, it wasn’t overwhelming. We must not lose the House in 2026. If Democrats retake control, their lawfare tactics will escalate. They’ll impeach Trump and do everything they can to drag us back into the swamp. The only thing standing in their way is the American voter.
Every election matters. If we want to save our country, we can’t afford to sit any of them out.
Flag Controversy in Boise Raises Questions About Law, Governance, and Accountability
A growing legal and political controversy is unfolding in Boise, Idaho, after Mayor Lauren McLean chose to fly the Lgbtq+ Pride Flag at City Hall, despite the recent passage of House Bill 96 (HB 96), which restricts the display of unauthorized flags on government property.
Signed into law by Governor Brad Little on April 3, 2025, HB 96 limits flags on public buildings to a specific list, including the American flag, Idaho State flag, military and POW/MIA flags, tribal flags, and official flag of government entities. The Pride flag is not on that list. Boise City Council, in an effort to skirt the law, in a 5-1 vote, passed a resolution on May 6 designating the Lgbtq+ flag as an “official city flag.” We believe this maneuver is a political workaround that violates the spirit—if not the technical letter—of the law.
HB 96 was designed to ensure neutrality in government spaces by restricting political, ideological, or cause-related flag displays. The legislation passed through Idaho’s standard legislative process and received broad support from lawmakers and constituents who viewed it as a measure to protect public spaces from politicization. The legislature has a reasonable expectation that government entities and other elected officials that have sworn an oath to uphold the constitution will follow the law. It would be impossible to put a penalty into every directive given to government.
Attorney General Raúl Labrador weighed in, by issuing a letter, confirming that Mayor McLean’s initial decision to fly the Pride flag violated the law.
Undermining the Rule of Law
The mayor’s actions have sparked concern across the state. This sends a dangerous message—that government officials can pick and choose which laws to follow. While HB 96 does not impose criminal penalties, the violation is still a civil offense and sets a troubling precedent for selective law enforcement. If the city government can pick and choose what laws it wants to follow, why can’t city residents?
Under Idaho law, state legislation overrides local ordinances. While cities may pass resolutions, they cannot override or subvert the intent of state law. House Speaker Mike Moyle has stated that taxpayer dollars shouldn’t subsidize open defiance of state law. There has been talk amongst legislators about withholding state tax revenue from noncompliant cities and discussions on how to hold elected officials that break the law accountable.
For many Idahoans, this controversy is about more than just a flag. It’s about accountability, transparency, and the integrity of public office. When elected officials act unilaterally or defy state law, it chips away at public trust and emboldens further disregard for law and government processes.
The political consequences could be swift. Recall efforts, public protests, and heightened voter engagement in Boise’s upcoming municipal elections are already underway. On the fiscal side, city taxpayers may bear the cost if state funds are withheld as a consequence of noncompliance.
If you are concerned about this issue we encourage you to:
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Contact your state legislators to support enforceable penalties for elected officials that violate the law.
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Stay engaged in the local elections, especially city council and mayor races.
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Demand accountability from elected officials at all levels of government.
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Never forget the principle of “consent of the governed”, a government’s legitimacy and power come from the agreement and approval of the people it governs.
In a state that values the rule of law, this incident serves as a reminder: No official is above the law, and respect for state governance must be upheld—even in disagreement.
Op-Ed: The GOP’s Hispanic Outreach
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
America is a nation of pioneers and immigrants; a land of opportunity for those willing to work hard to pursue their dreams. From the Native Americans whose ancestors migrated here uncounted years ago, to the Pilgrim Fathers and Jamestown planters who brought the English language, culture, and religion to these shores, and to the countless immigrants who have uprooted their lives to come here in the centuries since, America has been a melting pot of peoples and cultures, united by a shared love of liberty.
Last week, the Idaho GOP hosted an outreach event for Hispanic families in the Treasure Valley. Many of these fine Americans have long been left out of the political process. Democrats assume that all minority groups automatically belong to them, while Republicans have sometimes struggled with communication. But the concerns shared by Hispanic families are the same that we all share: education, inflation, crime, jobs, and the rule of law.
Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know many Hispanic Republicans across Idaho. One of them is Miguel DeLuna, a precinct committeeman from Eagle. After an incredible 35-year-career in law enforcement in California, Miguel did what thousands of others have done—he came to the Gem State, because Idaho is what America was.
In addition to his service in the community, Miguel has been a dedicated ambassador for the Republican Party. At last week’s event, he met with many attendees, including mothers with young children who hadn’t heard about Idaho’s new school choice tax credit. Who’s going to tell them? The Idaho Republican Party will.
Miguel also met a young woman whose parents came from the same Mexican state as his mother. She was excited to learn about the many events young Republicans are hosting throughout our state. If you’ve met some of our Republican youth lately you’ll agree that our future is bright!
I had the pleasure of joining Miguel and Attorney General Raúl Labrador at another outreach event in Garden City last month. Over morning donuts, we shared the GOP’s vision with Idahoans of all backgrounds. Our Attorney General has an amazing story of his own: born in the American commonwealth of Puerto Rico, raised by a single mother, and inspired by President Ronald Reagan, he went on to pursue a remarkable career of service to the people of Idaho and the United States.
The Hispanic community is an important part of the fabric of Idaho. As people of faith, family, and freedom, they are integral to the Republican Party. The American Dream belongs to all of us, no matter our background, and that’s a message we can all get behind.
Op-Ed: Every Election Matters
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
When most people think about elections, they think of presidential contests, gubernatorial races, or seats in Congress. These big, flashy campaigns dominate the headlines. But some of the most consequential decisions affecting our communities don’t come from Washington, or even from Boise. They come from local boards and commissions elected in so-called “off-cycle” elections.
Less than three weeks from now, on May 20, Idahoans will have the opportunity to vote in local elections. Instead of voting for president, governor, or the state legislature, you’ll be voting for library board trustees, sewer board members, and on bonds and levies for your local school district. These contests may not receive much media attention, but they deserve yours. The decisions made by these officials will affect everything from the books our children read to the quality of our roads to the integrity of how your tax dollars are spent.
Turnout for these elections is typically low, often in the single digits. That means a handful of votes can decide the outcome. If you’ve ever felt like your vote doesn’t matter, these elections are the perfect place to prove otherwise.
Take library boards, for example. Libraries have sadly become culture war battlegrounds across the country. Should sexually explicit materials be shelved in the children’s section? Should taxpayer-funded institutions promote controversial ideologies to minors? These questions aren’t settled in Congress, they’re decided by your local library board.
Or consider your local school district. This month, districts across Idaho will ask voters to approve millions of dollars in bonds and levies. Has your district been a good steward of your money, or has it wasted it? It’s up to you to decide.
Even something as seemingly mundane as the sewer board matters. These officials manage vital infrastructure and set the fees you pay for essential services. Mismanagement or overreach at this level can have long-term consequences for local growth, development, and affordability. The same goes for highway districts and fire commissioners, who oversee public safety and critical services we too often take for granted – until something goes wrong.
The Idaho Republican Party believes every level of government matters. Civic engagement doesn’t start at the top, it starts in your neighborhood. These local offices are not only where tomorrow’s leaders get their start, but where today’s policies most directly affect your life.
It’s not enough to vote for president every four years. Our republic depends on citizens like you doing your civic duty. Visit https://voteidaho.gov/election-information to view your sample ballot. Learn about the candidates, study the issues, talk to your neighbors, and most importantly, vote.
When Republicans show up, we win. And when we win, families, communities, and freedoms are protected. Let’s not sit this one out.
Op-Ed: Fighting the Good Fight
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
If it’s worth having, it’s worth defending. Our Founding Fathers understood that defending their liberty was worth even more than their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. Today we are called to fight in many arenas: the state house, the town hall, and the courts of law. Yet our mission remains the same: defend the liberties that have defined our nation and our way of life.
The traditional values that once made America great are under siege, from Washington, D.C. to Boise, Idaho. These attacks don’t come from a majority of voters, but from activist courts and elected officials who believe the law is whatever they say it is.
Consider the battle President Trump faces today. The American people sent him back to the White House with a mission: to stop the foreign invasion of our country and to reorient our government to serve the American people, not woke progressive causes. The response from the militant left hasn’t been to accept the will of the voters, it’s been to drag the administration through a gauntlet of court cases, many of them frivolous, each designed to drain its time, energy, and resources.
These aren’t trials. They’re tactical assaults by a political class terrified of losing its grip on power.
Yet we fight on. President Trump is setting the example, pushing back against these out-of-control judges and using every constitutional avenue available to him to make America great again.
Here in Idaho, Mayor Lauren McLean continues to insist the law doesn’t apply to her. Despite House Bill 96 (passed by the Legislature and signed into law by Governor Brad Little) prohibiting government entities from flying divisive ideological flags, McLean continues to fly the so-called pride flag in front of Boise City Hall.
She has received condemnation from the Attorney General, the Speaker of the House, and even the Ada County Sheriff’s Office. Yet she persists in defying a law passed by the duly elected representatives of the people of Idaho. Our great state is governed by laws, not by the whims of political leaders.
Make no mistake: when political leaders violate the law, there must be consequences. If the current law lacks sufficient enforcement, then the Legislature must add some teeth.
So we fight on. The task of defending our liberties won’t be accomplished in one fell swoop. It must be carried out day by day, until we pass it down to our children and grandchildren. As Ronald Reagan reminded us, every generation must fight that same fight. And as Thomas Paine warned, if any of us shrinks from the service of our country, we risk losing everything our ancestors fought to secure.
It is my honor, as Chair of the Idaho Republican Party, to stand with you in that battle today.
Op-Ed: Democrats Against Democracy
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
This week, Idaho received a special visit from the strange world of Blue America. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York seem to be pretty popular on the left, despite promoting a tired, discredited ideology with rhetoric lifted straight from the 1960s.
They parachuted into Nampa to deliver a sermon against “oligarchy”, a word that doesn’t mean what they think it means. They want you to believe they’re standing up for the common man against evil special interests, but in reality, they’re opposing the democratic outcome of the 2024 election in which the American people truly spoke truth to power.
It was quite the spectacle: Bernie railing against billionaires after flying on private jets, and AOC calling for economic equity while sporting designer fashion. If hypocrisy were a commodity, their event could’ve funded itself.
But let’s give credit where it’s due. They’re at least consistent in their desire to grow government, restrict freedom, and redistribute wealth in ways that have never worked anywhere. The real irony is that they chose to bring this message to Canyon County, one of the most conservative regions in the most conservative state in the West. Idahoans didn’t need a lecture on “equity” from self-described socialists.
Meanwhile, back in Boise, Mayor Lauren McLean continues her own progressive crusade, this time by refusing to take down a so-called “pride” flag flying in front of Boise City Hall. Under House Bill 96, which was passed and signed into law a few weeks ago, government buildings are prohibited from flying political or ideological flags. The law is clear. Yet the mayor seems to believe that she is above it.
This is the same mayor who has presided over a homelessness crisis, exploding city budgets, and rising crime. Apparently making a statement with a rainbow flag matters more than upholding the rule of law or respecting the diverse views of her constituents.
What ties these events together is a pattern we’ve seen too often: national progressives trying to plant ideological flags in Idaho soil, while local officials too eager to please them forget who they’re actually supposed to serve.
Idaho is not Brooklyn. It’s not San Francisco. And it’s certainly not Washington, D.C. We are proud of our conservative values of faith, family, and freedom. That’s not extremism. That’s Idaho.
So to our visiting dignitaries: thanks for stopping by, and I hope you tried some finger steaks. But next time, maybe read the room before lecturing us.
And to Mayor McLean: Idaho’s laws apply to everyone, even radical left-wing mayors. It’s time to take the flag down and start focusing on your actual job.
Idahoans deserve leaders who put the Constitution above tired old slogans and the law above failed leftist politics.
Op-Ed: Recapping a Successful Legislative Session
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
Every January, the Idaho Republican Party State Central Committee meets to pass a slate of resolutions that lay out the Republican agenda for the upcoming legislative session. At this year’s Winter Meeting, the Idaho GOP passed 23 resolutions, many of which called for legislative action.
I’m proud to report that the 2025 session was a grand success.
Resolution 2025-01 called on the Legislature to stop government entities from flying divisive flags on public property. House Bill 96 did just that, while House Bill 41 extended the mandate to public school classrooms. Going forward, Idaho governments will promote flags that unite us, not divide us.
Resolution 2025-07 called for legislation to create a uniform penalty for marijuana possession. House Bill 7 fulfilled that goal, establishing a mandatory minimum fine of $300 upon conviction. We’ve taken a strong stand against drug cartels and drug dealers by making it clear that Idaho is not open for their business.
On that note, Resolution 2025-18 took a strong stand against any potential legalization of marijuana. House Joint Resolution 4 will place a question on your ballot asking whether the power to legalize drugs should be reserved to the Legislature alone, putting a stop to expensive, never-ending initiatives aimed at bringing drugs to Idaho.
Resolution 2025-15 demanded the repatriation of illegal aliens in Idaho. While we are not quite there yet, this session saw new laws empowering sheriffs and police departments to remove criminal aliens as well as prohibiting welfare benefits from going to those who are not legally in the country.
Resolution 2025-17 called for stronger election security. House Bill 310 requires anti-fraud measures on all ballots cast in Idaho, while House Bill 339 requires the Secretary of State to ensure that only registered voters – and no noncitizens – can vote in our state.
Resolution 2025-20 called for strong laws to prohibit public colleges and universities from forcing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs on students. Senate Bill 1198 accomplished exactly that and was signed by the governor last Friday.
Finally, Resolution 2025-30 called for legislation to stop parties from swapping candidates after the May primary. House Bill 278 accomplished that, preventing parties from filling any post-primary vacancy except in the case of a candidate’s death or disqualification.
This is how the system is meant to work. You, the grassroots citizens of Idaho, can move mountains by getting involved. I’m proud of every officer and volunteer, without whom the Idaho Republican Party could do nothing. I’m proud of our Legislature for seeing these resolutions through, and especially grateful to our legislative liaisons, Sen. Glenneda Zuiderveld and Rep. Josh Tanner.
The deadline for resolutions for the 2025 Summer Meeting in Pocatello is May 6th, less than a month away, so talk to your local central committees now to get the ball rolling for next year!
Op-Ed: Standing Up For the Rule of Law
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
The rule of law is the foundation of western civilization. More than 800 years ago, Englishmen forced the tyrannical King John to sign a document respecting their natural rights, including the right to a trial by jury. Two hundred and fifty years ago, our Founding Fathers declared independence from another tyrannical king, standing on the truth that no ruler or parliament is above the law.
As Republicans, we believe the law applies equally to all, regardless of class, sex, ethnicity, or personal connections. That’s why we worked to hold accountable those who vandalized and stole our campaign signs last fall. What kind of message would it send to let even petty criminals get away with their crimes? We are pleased to see several individuals brought to justice for the harm they caused.
Standing up for the rule of law also means securing our borders. One of the biggest reasons voters have twice elected Donald Trump as our president is because, for years, he was one of the only voices willing to address the catastrophe at our southern border. For decades, both Republicans and Democrats have turned a blind eye to illegal immigration. Corporate lobbyists and NGOs have worked together to block every attempt to protect the American people from this unprecedented invasion.
Since President Trump returned to office, we have seen wailing and gnashing of teeth from those who have benefited from this lawlessness. But there are more patriotic Americans who believe in enforcing the law than there are those who want to maintain the status quo. Over the past three months, we’ve received dozens of calls at our office asking how to contact Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Idahoans want to see our laws enforced!
The legacy media has been running nonstop sob stories about illegal aliens now facing deportation because we finally have a president who takes enforcement seriously. But where is their empathy for American citizens who have been victims of criminal aliens? Where is their concern for young people who can’t find jobs because illegal workers have taken them?
There is a right way to enter this country: follow the law. Companies that hire illegal aliens should be held just as accountable as those who enter illegally. The Idaho Republican Party Platform is clear:
“Crime is not the basis of good citizenship. We oppose supporting illegal aliens by way of free access to housing, healthcare, technology, voting rights, or an unearned path to amnesty and citizenship as a reward for entering the United States illegally.
We support the detainment and prosecution of any person or organization aiding and abetting such individuals described above.”
You either support the rule of law, or you don’t. It’s time to stop making excuses and start enforcing our laws once and for all.
Op-Ed: The Medical Freedom Act
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
Bodily autonomy is perhaps the most fundamental natural right we have. Without control over what goes into our own bodies, “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” become impossible. The Idaho Legislature has passed a bill guaranteeing that right to every citizen, and it now awaits Governor Brad Little’s signature.
Senate Bill 1023, the Medical Freedom Act, builds upon the Coronavirus Pause Act, prohibiting businesses from discriminating based on whether someone has undergone any form of medical intervention. That includes any “procedure, treatment, device, drug injection, medication, or action taken to diagnose, prevent, or cure a disease or alter the health or biological function of a person.”
We all remember the Panic of 2020, when we were told we had to mask up and even take experimental injections just to participate in society. In 2023, the Legislature passed the Coronavirus Stop Act to protect Idahoans’ bodily autonomy, and Governor Little signed it into law. However, Sen. Dan Foreman recognized that unless stronger protections were put in place, we could be forced to go through it all over again the next time a pandemic is declared.
The Medical Freedom Act ensures that never happens again. It guarantees, once and for all, that the bodily autonomy of Idahoans will be respected and protected.
Idaho’s own Dr. Ryan Cole testified in support of SB 1023 and has urged Governor Little to sign it. As many of you know, Dr. Cole gained national attention during the COVID lockdowns for his fierce defense of our God-given right to control our own bodies. As a board-certified epidemiologist, he raised important questions about the safety of experimental vaccines and the potential effectiveness of alternative treatments like hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin. More importantly, he challenged the government’s authority to exert such sweeping, totalitarian control over “We the People.”
In 2020 and 2021, it felt like the whole world had gone mad. Many of us feared for the future of freedom in America. But this is 2025, and much has changed since those dark days. The American people sent Donald Trump back to the White House with a mandate to set things right. He, in turn, appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead Health & Human Services. Like Dr. Cole, RFK Jr. has long been skeptical of Big Pharma’s rhetoric and the government overreach that enabled it.
Signing SB 1023 into law will align Idaho with the priorities of President Trump and Secretary Kennedy to make America healthy again while safeguarding our most essential rights. I urge you to contact Governor Little at 208-334-2100 and ask him to sign this critical bill into law.
Op-Ed: The Chickens and the Eggs
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
This week, a legislative committee held a hearing on a bill that would have allowed more Idaho families to raise backyard chickens. While the bill ultimately failed to advance to the floor, it was yet another example of how Idaho families are responding as inflation continues driving grocery prices through the roof.
Here in Idaho, egg prices have soared, recently topping $6 a dozen for the cheapest options. Grocery stores across the Gem State post signs blaming an egg shortage and bird flu. But we know the real story: the Biden administration ordered the mass culling of over 100 million chickens, ostensibly to curb the spread of bird flu. That’s like using a sledgehammer to kill a flea.
Thankfully, the Trump administration has taken steps to bring those prices back down. But this is a stark reminder that we can’t take anything for granted. The supply chains that bring food to our tables are fragile, and time and again, government interference makes bad situations worse.
In Idaho, we don’t wait around for Washington DC to solve our problems. We are a self-reliant people, and when egg prices skyrocket, our first instinct is to find our own solutions, like raising backyard chickens. That’s what Idahoans do when the going gets tough: we take care of ourselves.
One thing we don’t do is look to the government for all the answers. We still believe in Ronald Reagan’s maxim that government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem. Remember, bird flu didn’t kill 100 million chickens and send egg prices soaring; the federal government did!
This week also marked National Agriculture Day. Here in Idaho, we understand the vital role agriculture plays in our lives. We celebrate the Idahoans who work the farms, pastures, and dairies that sustain us. We honor the family farmers who carry on a proud tradition of hard work, providing the food and materials that make modern life possible.
Our traditions of agriculture, family farming, and self-sufficiency are central to the faith, family, and freedom that Idaho Republicans cherish. The Idaho way isn’t government control, it’s getting the government of the way so individuals and the private sector can thrive. That is how we do it in Idaho, and that is how we keep Idaho great
Op-Ed: Article V Convention Fails in Idaho
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
The Idaho House overwhelmingly rejected House Concurrent Resolution 10, aimed at petitioning Congress to call an Article V Convention of States. This is a decisive victory for Idahoans by safeguarding America’s Constitution. The resolution failed by a significant margin, 44 nays to 26 ayes. This rejection occurred despite Convention of States promoters who have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to influence state legislators. The national Convention of States Project has for several years spent fortunes influencing Idaho legislative races in hopes to remove opposition against their failed agenda.
An Article V Convention, often represented as the Founder’s intended method for amending the Constitution, poses grave risks during our nation’s current expanding political polarization. Though intended to allow states to propose amendments, the provisions of Article V remain dangerously vague. The Constitution provides no guidelines for selecting convention delegates, no limitations on the matters that could be addressed, and no mechanisms to rein in a “runaway convention.” Former Chief Justice Warren Burger warned of these risks, asserting that there is no way to limit or control what such a convention might do once convened. The Republican National Committee codified this sentiment in its 2012 resolution firmly opposing any attempt to convene an Article V Constitutional Convention, seeing it as an opportunity for radical liberal groups to fundamentally rewrite the Constitution to advance their agenda.
HCR 10 sought to lead Idaho down this perilous path under the guise of reining in federal power by enacting balanced budget proposals and other supposedly populous remedies as Constitutional Amendments. However, this resolution would do nothing to prevent special interests from hijacking a convention. Progressives, with their well-funded campaigns, would eagerly seize upon the lack of precedence as an Article V Convention has never been called under our Constitution. Without historic guidelines and guardrails the Left would seize to promote policies that are antithetical to Idaho’s conservative values. The Constitution has already withstood the test of time. Its existing amendment process has allowed it to evolve responsibly without exposing the entire document to wholesale revisions.
The Idaho Republican Party opposed this resolution during its committee hearing as well as the Republican National Committee who have opposed an Article V Convention of States for years. The defeat of House Concurrent Resolution 10 makes it clear that such proposals are not only unnecessary but reckless. Our Constitution, regarded as the most successful governing document in human history, deserves to be protected—not jeopardized by activists or lobbyists who would render it unrecognizable.
Today’s defeat of HCR 10 speaks not only to the wisdom of Idaho’s lawmakers but to the enduring importance of grassroots efforts in defending our liberties. This outcome signals that Idahoans, and in particular conservatives, have no interest in gambling with our founding principles. The Idaho Republican Party will continue to stand guard and advocate for the preservation and integrity of our Constitution. We urge all Idahoans to remain vigilant and oppose any future attempts to endanger our state and national sovereignty through this reckless Article V Convention scheme.
Op-Ed: President Trump’s Historic State of the Union 2025
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
Just 43 days into his presidency, Donald J. Trump delivered a State of the Union address that was nothing short of monumental. Here in Idaho, we couldn’t be prouder of the remarkable progress President Trump has made in under two months. His forward thinking American First policies are bringing real results that align with the values Idahoans hold dear.
First and foremost, President Trump did what liberals claimed couldn’t be done, he secured the southern border. For the first time in our nation’s history, we recorded the lowest month ever for illegal border crossings. That’s leadership in action. President Trump isn’t just talking about protecting American sovereignty; he’s making it happen. Idahoans stand proudly behind his border security policies. The proof is in the numbers.
Another milestone highlighted during his address was the unprecedented fraud exposed by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Tens of millions in Social Security payments have been sent to individuals over 100 years old, one of whom was listed as 360 years old. These absurd records are now being investigated, eliminated, and saving taxpayers billions. The line by line disclosure of the fraud was a powerful moment in the President’s speech. It’s about time someone cleaned house, and President Trump is delivering the accountability that has been lacking for decades. Unlike the bloated bureaucracy of the past, this administration is draining the swamp with laser focus and Idaho couldn’t be more thrilled.
President Trump isn’t just rolling back President Biden’s disastrous DEI agenda—he’s obliterating it. The era of woke policies infiltrating every corner of our education system, workplaces, and government institutions is over. DEI hiring quotas? Gone. Critical race theory poisoning young minds? Eliminated. Men competing in women’s sports? Federally banned. President Trump proclaimed it best during his address, “Our country will be woke NO LONGER!” Idaho has long been on the front lines of resisting social engineering, and seeing our values reflected in Trump’s decisive actions is invigorating.
The energy in Washington is undeniable, and Idahoans feel it too. Trump is proving that leadership and accountability at the highest level can deliver unmatched results. His policies are creating an unstoppable wave of common sense and patriotism, and we’re proud to champion his successes here in our beautiful state. This is just the beginning, Idaho. America is back. We stand with President Trump as he ushers in America’s Golden Age.
A Historic Victory for School Choice in Idaho
Idaho has achieved a major milestone in expanding educational freedom! After years of dedicated effort, House Bill 93, the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit bill, has been signed into law by Governor Brad Little, marking a new era of meaningful school choice in our state.
School choice has been a longstanding priority for the Republican Party, both nationally and in Idaho. The national Republican Party Platform firmly supports Universal School Choice, and the Idaho Republican Party Platform advocates for changes to Idaho’s public school funding formula to include school choice. Additionally, President Donald J. Trump declared his complete and total support for House Bill 93, reinforcing the momentum behind this movement.
The Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit legislation offers a refundable tax credit of up to $5,000 per eligible student to parents, guardians, or foster parents who incur qualified education expenses. These expenses include tuition and fees for nonpublic K-12 schools, tutoring, college admission assessments, textbooks, curricula, and transportation for academic instruction. For special needs students requiring ancillary support, the credit increases to up to $7,500. All families can apply, but those earning less than 300% of the federal poverty level receive priority and may opt for a one-time advance payment in their first year of participation.
The Republican Caucus made school choice one of its top priorities for this year. With the leadership of Representative Wendy Horman and Senator Lori Den Hartog, House Bill 93 passed both chambers with strong support, demonstrating a clear commitment to expanding educational options for Idaho families.
This victory would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of education freedom advocates across the state. Their tireless work has ensured that Idaho families now have greater flexibility and options in their children’s education.
The Idaho Republican Party is proud to celebrate this huge win for Idaho’s students. We thank everyone who played a role in making this vision a reality, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact school choice will have on our state’s future.
Op-Ed: Idaho Celebrates Lincoln Day
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
The Lincoln Day celebrations are well underway, and this annual tradition continues to demonstrate the unity, strength, and values of our great state and our Republican Party. From Kootenai County to Idaho County, from Franklin County to the Treasure Valley, Lincoln Day stands as a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to Faith, Family, and Freedom.
Attorney General Raúl Labrador has taken the opportunity to visit counties across Idaho, speaking on the accomplishments he has achieved in safeguarding our state’s sovereignty and standing firm against federal overreach. His recent remarks at Idaho County’s Lincoln Day Dinner were met with enthusiasm, as he highlighted his victories and commitment to preserving individual liberty. Raúl exemplifies the leadership and resolve that Idaho Republicans expect and deserve.
Congressman Russ Fulcher has also been connecting with Republican communities during these celebrations, bringing firsthand accounts of his work in Washington, D.C., on behalf of Idaho’s values. Russ shared stories of his unwavering fight for our conservative principles and faith in delivering results for all Idahoans.
Our Senator, Jim Risch, has made several appearances where he’s spoken about his and Idahoans objections to the proposed Lava Ridge windmill project. This project opposition highlights his commitment to preserving Idaho’s state sovereignty and rural heritage. A proven conservative leader, Senator Risch has also played a critical role in advancing America First policies, including the confirmation of constitutionally driven cabinet nominees under President Trump.
This year’s Lincoln Day events have also featured special guest speakers such as Sean Spicer, former White House Press Secretary in Kootenai County, and Franklin County had the honor of hosting native Idahoan and former Utah Congressman, Chris Stewart.
Looking ahead, Ada County’s Lincoln Day Dinner is shaping up to be a standout event you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for April 4th in Boise, where we will welcome Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman as the keynote speaker. Congresswoman Hageman is a true defender of liberty who made history by unseating Liz Cheney and has been an indomitable force against government overreach in Washington. Her courage in protecting water and property rights and her tireless fight for the principles enshrined in our Constitution will surely resonate with all who value Idaho’s conservative principles.
Tickets are already selling fast, don’t wait to secure your spot for this incredible evening filled with community, inspiration, and a shared passion for freedom. Buy your tickets through the Ada County Republican Central Committee’s website, adagop.org.
Together, we celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s legacy, the resilience of Idaho’s Republican roots, and the unshakable belief in faith, family, and freedom. I look forward to seeing you at upcoming Lincoln Day events as we continue to unify Idaho around these foundational principles.
Op-Ed: Idaho Protests Expose Trump Derangement Syndrome
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
What did we witness across Idaho this week? A parade of protests steeped in Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS), spearheaded by the suspiciously active, far-left group 50501. Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls—it seemed like every town had protesters waving their accusatory signs and yelling about “democracy” and “justice.” For those of us paying attention, however, the reality is clear. These protests don’t reflect some deep-rooted, organic concern for our nation. No, they are the results of an orchestrated meltdown over the fact that, finally, someone is holding our bloated, corrupt government accountable.
Consider what’s unfolding with DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency). Layoffs across federal agencies are exposing just how overextended and inefficient these systems have become. Case in point: Payette National Forest, where 34 workers were dismissed. Critics whine about the cuts, citing “public lands management” struggles, but what they won’t tell you is how layers of federal bureaucracy have operated unchecked for decades. The majority voted against this dysfunction, and now the entitled elites who benefited from it are finally being reined in.
50501 would have you believe these protests are a “grassroots” effort. But anyone paying attention can see that this is TDS in its purest form. People are upset that President Trump’s presidency exposed just how unaccountable their government fiefdoms are. These activists cling to identity politics and “woke” posturing to distract from real reform. Peaceful protests, you say? Sure. Is that before or after your group lashes out over job losses in the very bureaucracy the country voted to shrink?
Take Stanley, Idaho, where the protests were as predictable as they were theatrical. Locals there (yes, all 60 or so) braved the snowstorm, chanting about “solidarity.” Meanwhile, others hollered across the state about Elon Musk and “unjust laws,” throwing in every progressive buzzword they could muster. The truth? These protesters are less concerned about racism or democracy and more consumed with losing the power they quietly hoarded under the guise of serving “the people.”
Trump promised to drain the swamp, and what we’re seeing today is proof that the promise is being kept. The overblown protests, the empty cries against efficiency measures like DOGE, the exodus of entitled DC elites—all inescapable signs of progress. Idahoans should pay attention. The loudest voices aren’t always the most truthful and they certainly aren’t representative of the local majority. The swamp is draining, and the squealing you hear is the sound of unearned power slipping away. Stay strong, Idaho.
Op-Ed: Confirmation Hearing Week Kicks Off with Idaho’s Support
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
The first week of confirmation hearings opened with significant moments for Idahoans and conservatives across the nation. On Tuesday, Pete Hegseth, nominee for Secretary of Defense, took center stage, delivering a powerful and captivating opening statement that underscored his commitment to restoring America’s warrior ethos.
Hegseth’s poised and resolute demeanor was evident as he addressed the Senate Armed Services Committee. Despite repeated challenges from liberal senators, he demonstrated unwavering focus, setting the tone for his role. “Two months ago, 77 million Americans gave President Trump a powerful mandate for change, to put America First—at home and abroad,” Hegseth stated. He outlined his mission to rebuild the Department of Defense with an emphasis on “lethality, meritocracy, warfighting, accountability, and readiness.”
What made the hearing extraordinary was the visible support from service members attending the session. Their collective presence represented a strong endorsement of Hegseth’s candidacy and his proposed changes to the Pentagon’s culture. Idahoans watching could take pride in knowing that leaders like Hegseth are championing the ideals of American strength, unity, and readiness.
Another pivotal moment came as Hegseth promised to reinstate troops dismissed due to COVID vaccine mandates. Addressing Senator Jim Banks, Hegseth vowed, “Not only will they be reinstated, they will receive an apology, back pay, and rank that they lost.” This restoration, long-awaited by many military families, reflects a step toward healing and accountability after contentious policies under the previous administration.
Idaho residents, with their deep-rooted respect for the armed forces and conservative values, have much to appreciate in Hegseth’s approach. His prioritization of defending American borders, reforming procurement issues, and modernizing military capabilities aligns with principles that resonate with our state and beyond.
The energy during Hegseth’s hearing has set the tone for the week, which also featured hearings for nominees such as Pam Bondi for the Justice Department, Marco Rubio for the State Department, and John Ratcliffe for the CIA. These leaders are equally determined to uphold President Trump’s America First vision, ensuring our country remains robust and secure in an increasingly volatile world.
Idaho’s conservative voters and patriots nationwide are energized by the progress seen during the week’s proceedings. With leaders like Pete Hegseth poised to serve, this new era is one of accountability and renewed strength for America—values Idaho has always fought for and defended.
Beliefs Held Strong
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
Nearly two weeks ago, the Idaho Republican Party wrapped up its state convention with a platform to be proud of. We are not ashamed to proclaim that government spending should conform to the state and federal constitutions, that ranked choice voting is a terrible idea, and that we should protect life at every stage, from conception until natural death.
I am proud to represent a party that believes in these important principles, and I believe the majority of Idahoans stand with me. Of course, the legacy media couldn’t help themselves, publishing a bunch of op-eds warning that the Idaho GOP is more extreme than ever.
Do you know who is really extreme? It is the other party. After spending half an hour debating which pronouns to use for their platform, they passed one of the most radically far left agendas in our country’s history.
● The Idaho GOP believes parents should have the freedom to choose how to educate their children. The other party wants to lock them into a failing public school system.
● The Idaho GOP believes in strong border security and a well vetted legal immigration system. The other party wants to grant amnesty to those who came here illegally and broke our laws.
● The Idaho GOP believes obscene and pornographic materials have no place in the children’s section of public and school libraries. The other party wants to make sure they stay there.
● The Idaho GOP believes life begins at conception, and that we have a responsibility to protect preborn children. The other party supports unrestricted abortion.
● The Idaho GOP believes in protecting children from irreversible drugs and mutilating surgeries. but the other party promotes them, insisting that boys can be girls and girls can be boys.
Can you imagine John F. Kennedy, Frank Church, or Cecil Andrus supporting such an extreme platform, one so contrary to the principles of life and liberty?
As Republicans, we look to the timeless principles and traditional values that made our country great in the first place. We stand on the rock of our Creator God and the dignity and liberty of the people made in His image. The other party has no rock, no true north. Their principles change day by day, a sliding scale of intersectional victim points as malleable as each new pride flag.
No matter the spin, no matter how they dress up their far left extremism in the guise of compassion and social justice, the people of Idaho can see the truth. Idaho is and has been a red state because an overwhelming majority support faith, family, and freedom, and the Republican Party is proud to represent them.
The Republican Grassroots Won
by Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
The 2024 Idaho GOP State Convention concluded with a clear mandate, in Coeur d’Alene last weekend, as conservative candidates won every officer race. The convention also adopted a new platform that strengthens our party’s positions on the sanctity of life, constitutional governance, and economic freedom.
A lot of hard work went into making this convention a success. I want to thank the Kootenai County GOP for hosting the event, as well as the staffs of the Coeur d’Alene Resort and North Idaho College for keeping things safe and smooth. I especially must thank the Idaho GOP staff and volunteers for their many days and weeks spent preparing committee packets, name badges, swag bags, and everything else that was necessary.
The convention was a time for party business as well as fellowship with Republicans from throughout the Gem State. It was my honor to be reelected chair, and I am excited to continue the work we began in Twin Falls two years ago. Since that time, we have raised more money, empowered county and legislative district committees, and hosted a caucus that nominated Donald Trump for president.
The resolutions, platform proposals, and elected officers represent a mandate from the grassroots of the Idaho Republican Party. The results show that, despite what you might read in the newspaper or see on TV, and no matter how many deceptive fliers are dropped in mailboxes, there is a conservative movement in Idaho that is only growing stronger. The people have awakened and they have spoken.
I am sure you have already seen the hit pieces — they started churning out even before the cheering had died down in the Schuler Auditorium at NIC. “Extremists have taken over the Idaho GOP,” they say. Well, let me tell you, it is not extremists who are in charge. It is the people. Idaho Republicans want a party that will fight for faith, family, and freedom, and that is what we are doing.
What is so extreme about saying that the government should only spend tax dollars where constitutionally required? What is so extreme about opposing abortion and euthanasia? What is so extreme about protecting children from exploitation?
If you want to find the real extremists, look no further than the opposing party. Abortion on demand until birth, legalized drugs, obscene materials in every library, and spending your last dollar on government programs — that is the real extremism lurking in Idaho. Where are the hit pieces on these radical positions? We all know that the legacy media agrees with them, so they will not tell you how out of touch the other party is with the people of Idaho.
The Idaho Republican Party is stronger than ever and will continue to keep Idaho the best state in the nation.
2024 Republican State Convention
By Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
I am writing to you from the 2024 Idaho GOP State Convention in beautiful Coeur d’Alene.
Hundreds of Republicans have gathered from across the Gem State to celebrate the values and principles we hold dear, values under attack throughout our nation.
The differences between the two major parties have never been starker. Let me remind you of what four years of Democrat rule have brought to America:
Under President Trump, inflation was low, gas prices were down, and Americans enjoyed economic freedom not seen in decades.
Under President Biden, grocery bills have skyrocketed, and the American Dream seems out of reach for young people today.
President Trump worked for world peace. He brought North Korea to the negotiating table and the Abraham Accords were the biggest step toward peace in the Middle East since Camp David.
President Biden is leading the world to the brink of war, fanning the flames of conflict in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
President Trump said a nation without borders is not a nation at all, and he worked hard to control our borders. He began constructing a big, beautiful wall to protect the citizens of this country, and when he’s in office again, he will finish that wall, a monument to American sovereignty.
President Biden, on the other hand, has deliberately opened our southern border, allowing millions of undocumented illegal aliens to enter our country. Close to six million migrants have entered our country illegally over the last two years — that is three times the entire population of Idaho!
President Trump worked to stop divisive ideologies from being promulgated by our government. He signed an executive order banning critical race theory in government offices and spoke out against radical racial and gender ideologies.
President Biden is pushing these radical ideologies on us and our children. He is using federal regulations to force schools to allow boys to use girls bathrooms and for teachers to use alternative pronouns for those children ensnared by these ideas.
Finally, President Trump was the most pro-life president in history, not only speaking at the March for Life but also appointing the justices who finally overturned Roe v. Wade.
On the other hand, President Biden is currently suing the state of Idaho over our abortion ban, claiming that federal law requires doctors to end the lives of the unborn.
As Republicans, we have our differences, but those pale in comparison to the radical, leftist, anti-American ideology of the Democratic Party.
The Idaho GOP will come out of this convention energized to fight for our state and our country. It’s time to reelect President Trump and support our Republican legislators who will work to protect faith, family, and freedom in Idaho.
Idaho GOP Convention to Celebrate Republican Values
By Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
Next week, delegates from across the Gem State will gather at the Coeur d’Alene Resort for the 2024 Idaho GOP State Convention. This biennial event unites representatives of the Republican grassroots to conduct party business and celebrate the values that bind us together.
Delegates and guests will have the chance to meet like-minded individuals from every corner of our great state and equip themselves with tools to become better voters, activists, and candidates. Attendees will return home energized and ready to fight for faith, family, and freedom in their communities.
I am excited to announce that the Idaho GOP has reduced the Convention registration fee to a flat $25 for delegates, alternates, and guests. When I ran for chair in 2022, I promised to make this happen—the cost of this event should not burden the delegates chosen to represent their county and legislative district committees.
Two years ago in Twin Falls, delegates were charged an astounding $150 per person which did not even guarantee meals and the food quickly ran out. With Bidenflation raising prices across the board, I wanted to ensure that everyone could afford to participate in this important event.
Starting Thursday morning, delegates will participate in committees to evaluate potential rules, resolutions, and platform changes, which will be considered by all delegates on Friday and Saturday. Non-committee delegates and guests are welcome to observe the committee proceedings as space permits.
We will also present several valuable workshops to better equip our volunteers. On Thursday, you can learn about the dangers of ranked choice voting, how to get started as a grassroots activist, and everything you ever wanted to know about Idaho’s strategic metals. On Friday, there will be sessions on campaign finance reporting, the role of precinct committeeman, and parliamentary procedures.
No matter your role within the party, you will gain valuable information.
On Friday night, the Kootenai County GOP will host the Idaho Republican Gala, featuring electrifying speaker Kari Lake of Arizona. As a leading national voice in the MAGA movement, she continues to push back against Joe Biden’s radical agenda and is committed to protecting our American way of life.
I am so proud of the work our staff and volunteers have done to make the 2024 State Convention happen. After organizing the Presidential Caucus and dozens of Lincoln Days throughout the state, the hardworking men and women of the Idaho GOP have dedicated themselves to preparing for this event. I know it is going to be great. I am looking forward to seeing so many passionate and dedicated Republicans in Coeur d’Alene next week!
Crisis and Accountability
By Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman
Last week, a viral video showed buses dropping off large crowds of people in the Treasure Valley. They clearly were not tourists, and witnesses said they were given food cards upon arrival. My phone has been ringing nonstop as concerned Idahoans demand answers. Were these illegal immigrants? Refugees? Guest workers?
We do not know, and that is the problem.
It is easy to close our eyes and pretend that the border crisis does not affect us here. After all, even at its closest point the southern border is more than 600 miles away. Yet there are buses, there are airplanes, and there is a federal government that is not just allowing an invasion, they are facilitating it.
We know that the federal government is working with non-governmental agencies and charity organizations to ferry illegal migrants from the border to destinations throughout our country. The McClure Center reported just a few months ago that there were at least 35,000 illegal aliens working in Idaho.
How many are here that are not working? How many are technically “refugees”, a term that has been abused by the Biden Administration to avoid having to enforce our existing border laws?
We just do not know, and it is time we got some answers.
At the end of the legislative session, the House passed a bill allowing our state’s law enforcement to enforce immigration laws for illegals who commit other crimes. Unfortunately, the Senate committee did not hear the bill. This should be a top priority in the next session. How many Laken Riley’s must lose their lives to criminal aliens before we say enough is enough?
The same Senate committee also declined to hear a bill that would allow Idaho to create an interstate compact with other states like Texas. This would have enabled us to pool resources and tackle this problem together rather than dismissing it as someone else’s responsibility. It is time to stop passing the buck. Sure, the federal government is supposed to enforce our borders, yet it is not. So, now what?
The buck ultimately stops with our state’s chief executive, Governor Brad Little. I am grateful that our governor stood with Governor Greg Abbott of Texas when he faced down the federal government and I am grateful that we sent law enforcement personnel to the border. More is still required. The people of Idaho are looking for someone to lead on this issue.
I urge the governor to take a strong stand on the migrants being bused into our state. Idahoans deserve to know how many illegals and refugees are entering our communities. The secretive nature of this project only breeds misinformation and mistrust. Let us learn the truth and do what is necessary to protect our great state.
Your Benewah County Republican Central Committee urges you to contact Governor Little and let him know you want him to take a strong stand on this matter!
Benewah County Republican Central Committee 