A Message From the Chair: Idaho Voters Must Choose Fork in the Road

We face a critical choice between two competing futures for Idaho. It’s crucial that voters understand the fork in the road and the policies that await us based on our chosen path. This month, the Idaho Democratic Party launched billboards on some of the busiest roadways in our state, reminding Idahoans of some of the most harmful actions of Idaho GOP politicians.

One of the most alarming consequences of the extreme GOP agenda is the plight of pregnant women. Idaho’s draconian abortion ban has forced women into medical evacuations to receive necessary care – risking their lives, health, and future fertility while costing them thousands upon thousands of dollars. This law places the lives of women at risk and underscores Republican politicians’ disregard for women’s autonomy and health. The prohibition is so severe that even in cases where the mother’s life could be in danger, doctors and nurses fear prosecution and prison time.

Our schools are also suffering under the weight of Republican mismanagement and neglect. Chronic underfunding of Idaho schools and GOP policies designed to make it much harder to pass school levies have forced closures in communities like Priest River, Coeur d’Alene, Caldwell, and Nampa this year. Underfunded schools mean larger class sizes, fewer specialized offerings like career technical education, and diminished opportunities for the next generation. Idaho students deserve better than last-in-the-nation levels of investment.

Even our libraries, beloved institutions overseen by local communities, are not safe from Republican extremism. The Republicans’ library bill, now in effect, gives enormous power - and cash rewards - to book banners. In short, it takes away our freedom to make reading decisions for ourselves and our families. Already, the one-room Donnelly Public Library decided it could no longer allow anyone under 18 to visit unless accompanied by a parent due to the risks posed by this law. A sign in the Idaho Falls Public Library warns those under 18 must be prepared to show their ID before entering.

Adding to this troubling agenda, the Idaho Republican Party has now adopted a platform that would criminalize the practices that make in vitro fertilization possible. IVF has been a beacon of hope for countless couples struggling with infertility. Imposing limitations on this medical procedure is cruel and senseless.

When pregnant women must leave their state to access emergency medical care, when our children’s futures get shortchanged, when our libraries are forced to shutter or lock out kids, and when people face barriers to medical procedures that allow them to build the families of their dreams, we all lose.

It is time for change. This November, we must choose a future where our communities are safe, our children are educated, and our freedoms are protected.

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Lauren Necochea
Idaho Democratic Party Chair