2023 DNC Winter Meeting
I am excited to tell you that I am in Philadelphia this week proudly representing Idaho at the Democratic National Committee Winter Meeting. This is my first such event and based on the emails and texts I’ve received about it; I am extremely excited. Based on what I know so far, the mood nationally seems energetic and positive. Hopefully, I can bring that optimistic spirit home with me. Stay tuned. I will share my impressions about the meeting in next week’s message.
Standing Against MTG’s Visit
As you know, Representative Marjorie Taylor-Greene is visiting Coeur d’Alene on February 11 to deliver the keynote address at the GOP Lincoln Day Dinner. Those of you who have called for a formal and vigorous protest for her visit will be happy to hear that a community group plans an outdoor demonstration called Make North Idaho Decent Again on February 11 from 4-7 PM at Independence Point.
In addition, the Kootenai County Democrats will host a counter event titled the Hijacking Democracy Symposium on February 25th at 11 AM at Templin’s Resort. We hope our event educates Kootenai County citizens about the dangers that Marjorie Taylor-Greene and her supporters pose to democracy.
Attendees will hear from great speakers, including constitutional law expert Dr. David Adler, Coeur d’Alene City Council Members Dan Gookin & Christie Wood, Idaho House of Representatives Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, Reclaim Idaho Director Luke Mayville, and others. Our panelists will address national and statewide issues, but they will also focus on the damage done to North Idaho College.
My apology for the $40 admission fee. I know there are folks who feel this is pricy, but our expenses and the included lunch dictated this amount.
Please do not miss this event. Your attendance will send the strong message that Kootenai County does not support Marjorie Taylor-Greene’s repugnant views. Plus, if any Republicans choose to attend, they may be inspired to do some soul searching.
March 11 School Levy Election
First, remember to vote. Go to Vote Idaho for official voter information including how to check your voter registration, request absentee ballots, and other key information.
Second, for information about the Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls Levies, use the following links.
Coeur d’Alene School Levy Info
Take Action to Protect Public Instruction
There is currently a bill proposed in the Idaho Senate Education Committee called Freedom in Education Savings Accounts that is another attempt to undermine public education. The bill mirrors a law passed in Arizona and other red states that permits families to opt out of public schools and divert the per student allocation of $5,950 to pay for private school tuition. Reasons to reject ESA’s include the fact that this program primarily benefits wealthy, urban taxpayers not average Idahoans. In fact, this approach would be especially harmful to schools with the most severe funding shortfalls like rural schools struggling to hire certified teachers and classroom aides.
Please take a moment (and it won’t require more than a moment) to do one or both of the following:
1. Tell Legislators to Vote Against Vouchers. Use this form letter to submit a message to your legislators.
2. Email Representatives Mark Sauter and Representative Dale Hawkins on the House Education Committee. Their votes could decide the school voucher matter. Tell them where you live, urge them to vote against school vouchers, and tell them why. Please keep it brief, be polite, and keep to the point.
NIPA is Hiring
The North Idaho Pride Alliance is seeking a new part-time Executive Director. If you or someone you know is interested in this paid position, working for this great organization, please check it out.
IDP Needs Phone Callers
The IDP will conduct a poll of Idaho Democrats who have participated in previous elections but sat out in 2022. If you have time to support this effort, please contact Jared DeLoof at Jared@Idahodems.org.
Thanks for being a Democrat everyone. Have a fantastic week.
