Election Wrap Up

First, I would like to offer a BIG thank you to all those Democrats who waved signs for the YES Campaign and for library board candidates Judy Meyer and Regina McCrea. As you surely know, these valued custodians did not win re-election. To make matters worse, the men replacing them vow to ban books that offend conservatives. We know that their mission is based on false and misleading claims, and it will be up to us to keep them honest.

Fortunately, the school levies passed so we can feel relieved for now. This is good news. What makes it even better is how it happened. It started with the YES Campaign decision to reach out to the Democrats for help. By joining with us, together we achieved a political victory. The lesson I take from this is that when we work together, we can stop the forces that are working to undermine public education and other moderate values that define Kootenai County.

So, thanks again to all who contributed time, money, and ability during this election.

Updates

This past weekend I traveled to Bonners Ferry to attend the Boundary County Democrats Summer BBQ. Eighty-five folks paid the $10 admission fee and enjoyed the event together at the county fairgrounds. The evening featured a potluck dinner, a silent auction, and guitar music. Oh, I forgot to mention that I was the guest speaker. It was great fun.

Speaking of social events, Pride in the Park is right around the corner. I hope you will turn out to support our LGBTQ+ friends and let them know that last year’s threats will not be repeated.

Also, we will have a summer BBQ of our own on July 29th at Stella’s on The Hill (Elk Point Events Center). Thanks to Dan Studer for making this possible. Mark your calendars now. You will not want to miss this one. More details are forthcoming. 

Plus, our Central Committee will soon have openings for two committee officers. Unfortunately, we are losing Committee Woman Mirna Pleines and Legislative District 5 Chair Lindsey Barber. Although we are sad to see them go, we are grateful for all they have done over the past few years. These committee openings are positions of authority that come with a vote on the state Central Committee. If you, or someone you know, is interested in either of these positions, please speak up. 

And finally, there is something definitive in the works to restore open primaries in Idaho. Reclaim Idaho launched an effort to end the closed Republican Primary by ballot initiative. This fix will take loads of effort, human and financial. So please plan now to contribute what you can. Go to the Reclaim Idaho website for further information.

Happy Memorial Day everyone and be safe.