I’ve been calling for an end to non‑partisan races in Idaho for years, and the reason is simple: they’re a political shell game. They let the Left operate in the shadows while pretending the race is about potholes and parks instead of ideology.
If we’re serious about stopping the Gem State Heist, then party affiliation must be disclosed, every race, every time. States that ignored this are now drowning in liberal policy collapse, and Idaho won’t be any different if we follow their playbook.
Democrats in Idaho have openly admitted they hide their affiliation in city elections. They’re not even subtle about it.
Years ago, Evangeline Beechler, former Chairwoman of the Idaho Democratic Party, bragged in a public forum that Democrats love city races because they can “hide” who they really are. That wasn’t a slip, it was a strategy.
And why wouldn’t they? Idaho is one of the most conservative states in the country. Democrats know they can’t win running as Democrats, so they either slap an R next to their name or run in races where the D never appears on the ballot. It’s political camouflage, and they’ve been using it for decades.
City races also draw fewer voters than gubernatorial, congressional, or legislative races, which makes them the perfect place for quiet ideological takeovers. Meanwhile, nearly every other race in Idaho requires party disclosure. Why should the level of government closest to the people be the one with the least transparency?
And yes, party affiliation absolutely changes how a city is run. Look at Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco; cities hollowed out by progressive policies. Now compare them to places like Nampa, Meridian, or other Republican‑led Idaho cities. The difference isn’t subtle.
Then look at Boise. Does anyone honestly believe Boise would look anything like it does today if Republicans were running it? The results speak for themselves.
A few years ago, I backed Rep. Gayann DeMordaunt’s push to require partisan disclosure in city elections. I’m told another lawmaker is preparing to run similar legislation this year.
But here’s the blunt truth: none of this matters if Idahoans sit on the sidelines. The legislature won’t move unless the people force it to.
Idaho can’t keep pretending that “non‑partisan” means neutral. It doesn’t. It means Democrats get to hide while Republicans play by the rules. It means voters are kept in the dark. It means the Left gets a free pass to reshape Idaho city by city while pretending politics isn’t involved.
If we want transparency, accountability, and honest elections, then Idahoans have to demand it, loudly and relentlessly.
This is the year to end the charade. No more hiding. No more games. No more pretending.
Let’s expose the labels, pass the bill, and make sure Idaho stays Idaho.