Biography and Background
As a cattle rancher and Speaker of the Idaho House, I have a proven conservative record of defending Idaho values. I’m a fourth generation rancher and innovative small business owner whose family has been living and working in the Oakley area since the 1870s. Both as a rancher and as Speaker of the most conservative legislature in the country, I have taken on the federal government to protect our land and water rights. I’ve successfully negotiated and settled long-standing water disputes that have plagued Idaho for decades, including the Snake River Adjudication. I’m A+ rated by the NRA, have a 100% pro-life voting record with Idaho Chooses Life, and have been selected as the Legislator of the Year by the Fraternal Order of Police. My wife, Sarah, and I are proud parents and grandparents to four children and 14 grandchildren.
Top 3 Issues
Issue 1
Defending our Idaho Values:
As Speaker of the Idaho House of Representatives, I’ve led many successful fights to stop the federal government from infringing on our constitutional rights and way of life. Recently, I helped lead efforts to block Joe Biden’s Department of Education from pushing liberal ideologies like critical race theory in Idaho schools. I also strongly oppose the Biden Justice Department labeling parents who speak out at school board meetings as “domestic terrorists.”
Whether it be the 2nd Amendment or Right to Life issues, I believe we can’t reaffirm our commitment to these values enough. I do that vocally, and through action, earning an A+ rating from the NRA and a 100% pro-life voting record with Idaho Chooses Life.
Issue 2
Responsible Government:
As Speaker of the Idaho House of Representatives, I have led the effort to balance the budget and create a record surplus in Idaho. I also passed the single largest tax cut in state history, making sure the surplus was returned to Idaho taxpayers.
As a rancher and small business owner, I’m proud that I was able to negotiate long-standing water disputes, like the Snake River Adjudication. Water has long been a precious commodity out West, and Idaho’s population growth is only increasing the demand. I’ve delivered proven results for multiple disputes and am honored to be highly regarded by leaders involved in these issues across Idaho.
Additionally, I’ve helped slash needless government regulations by 95 percent and turned Idaho into the least regulated state in America.
Most politicians just talk, while I focus on getting results for Idaho.
Issue 3
Protecting Idaho’s citizens:
We back the blue in Idaho and I’m against any effort to defund the police. As Speaker, I’ve consistently voted to fully fund law enforcement and provide leaders a seat at the table when it comes to discussions or bills about their profession. That’s why I have been voted as Legislator of the Year by the Idaho Fraternal Order of Police.
Furthermore, we need to ditch Joe Biden’s open border agenda, fix our Southern border, and prevent the flood of drugs, gangs, and illegal immigrants. It’s essential to keep Idaho kids and families safe. I will continue to support and work with law enforcement to clean up Biden’s border mess by enforcing immigration laws and keeping illegal drugs out of Idaho.
Both examples are precisely why I’ve joined the Operation Esto Perpetua task force. It’s a citizen action group, with members from all corners of Idaho, who are committed to helping law enforcement officers keep Idahoans safe. I’m proud to be a member of this important team!
Integrity in Affiliation
Submission: Yes
“I have read the Idaho Constitution and the Idaho Republican Party Platform. Except for the provisions specifically noted below, I support the Idaho Republican Party Platform and accept it as the standard by which my performance as a candidate and as an officeholder should be evaluated. I certify that I am not a candidate, officer, delegate or position holder in any party other than the Republican Party.”
I do not support a repeal of the 17th Amendment, as stated in the Idaho GOP platform. Idahoans deserve the right and freedom to vote for their elected leaders in lawful elections. (Article 1, Section 3.C)
I support the stance of Idaho Chooses Life on abortion issues, specifically regarding cases of rape, incest, and when the mother’s life is in danger. (Article XIV, Section 3.A and E) I have a 100% voting record with Idaho Chooses Life, as well as their endorsement in this election.
I support the stance of Idaho Chooses Life on abortion issues, specifically regarding cases of rape, incest, and when the mother’s life is in danger. (Article XIV, Section 3.A and E) I have a 100% voting record with Idaho Chooses Life, as well as their endorsement in this election.
