2024 Election Guide
The voice of progressives in
every town in America
every town in America
Idahoans want the freedom to prosper and see their hard work translate into financial stability for their families. Yet, as our state grows, many middle-class families are finding it harder to manage the cost of essentials like health care, housing, and groceries. Idaho Democrats understand these challenges. That’s why we prioritize lower costs for families and tax solutions that benefit everyday families, not just the wealthy few.
Idaho’s tax code is upside down. The Republican supermajority has rigged it so those with the least pay the greatest share of their income in taxes. For years, Republican leaders have handed out tax breaks to wealthy donors and corporate backers while everyday people whose work made them prosper received little to no benefit. Under the 2022 GOP tax plan, households in the top 1% received $8,000 checks and yearly tax cuts averaging $5,000, while most Idahoans got only a one-time $75 check. This backward approach squeezes working families while letting those at the top skate by.
Idaho Democrats support a more balanced tax system. We will work to lower property taxes for homeowners by investing in schools, which will help pay down bonds and levies. We will continue working to increase the homeowner’s exemption and tie it to housing costs, protecting families as property values rise. And we will push to eliminate the sales tax on groceries. It’s not right that families and people with fixed incomes pay a higher tax rate on food and medicine than corporations pay on profits.
Idaho Democrats will fight to protect policies that lift up working families. We’ll defend Medicaid expansion, which ensures families can access preventive and emergency health care without financial ruin. Every year, Republican politicians plot to repeal the only health coverage option available to 80,000 Idahoans.
Idaho Democrats will protect LAUNCH, which helps Idaho high school graduates get training for good-paying jobs. It only passed because of Democratic support and is at risk of being dismantled by Republicans next year.
Finally, we will fight to reopen enrollment for the Idaho Child Care Program, which Republicans allowed to crumble. With $50 million in unspent grant dollars available, Idaho families could continue receiving child care assistance they are due — if we elect leaders willing to use it.
When Idahoans working full-time can’t afford child care, housing, or a trip to the doctor, they deserve solutions, not indifference. This November, we have an opportunity to support policies that deliver for our families and communities. Idaho Democrats are ready to stand up to MAGA Republicans and their billionaire backers, make corporations contribute their fair share, and ensure that all Idahoans can earn a good living and have a good life.
-- Lauren Necochea
Idaho Democratic Party Chair.