Guest Opinion by Rep. Heather Scott of Blanchard
Idaho is a state brimming with opportunity, rugged individualism, and a community spirit that sets us apart. But let’s face it—sometimes, it’s easy to feel like the federal government has its thumb on our state. Over the past decade, we’ve had two governors who, while managing Idaho’s day-to-day affairs, often had to tip their hats to the federal government to keep the funds flowing. And what did we get in return? Common Core, gas tax hikes, COVID dollars with strings attached, boys in girls’ bathrooms, and DEI initiatives—all neatly tied to federal dollars.
Despite our supermajority Republican status, I’ve watched these agendas make their way into Idaho policy, and frankly, Idahoans have had enough. The good news? There’s a change in the air, and with the upcoming administration stepping into power at the national level, we have a golden opportunity to reclaim our independence and chart a course for a stronger, more sovereign Idaho.
A new administration means a fresh chance to assert our state sovereignty and say no to federal strings. We’re not here to play follow-the-leader. Idaho is ready to lead, and we’ve got a to-do list that’s as bold as our mountains:
- Take Back Our Lands: Let’s end the federal stranglehold on Idaho’s public lands. Our forests, rivers, and rangelands belong to Idahoans, not bureaucrats in D.C. Only Idahoans will assure that these lands will never be sold to the highest bidder to pay for federal debt.
- Cut the CFRs: Federal codes and regulations (CFRs) have crept into every corner of our administrative rules. It’s time to clean house and return to state-driven solutions.
- Review and Revise Agency Policies: Idaho’s agencies need a hard reset. We need to streamline, simplify, and ensure they’re serving Idahoans, not federal interests.
- Shrink the Bureaucracy: Fewer agencies mean less red tape and more accountability. Let’s trim the fat.
- Reclaim Local Control of Schools: The feds have no business dictating what’s best for Idaho’s children. It’s time to return power to local school boards and parents with real choices. Abolishing the Federal Dept. of Education will be a good start.
- Reduce Federal Reliance: Federal funds are like that free sample at the store—tempting at first but often more costly in the long run. Relying on the federal government means loss of state sovereignty. We will now invest in Idaho-grown solutions that don’t come with a catch.
- Free Up Small Businesses: Burdensome laws and occupational licensing are holding back our entrepreneurs. Let’s make Idaho a haven for small businesses to thrive.
- Explore Hard Money: A return to a gold and silver standard may sound ambitious, but Idahoans have never shied away from bold ideas.
The winds are shifting, and Idaho is ready to catch the breeze. This is our moment to stand tall, push back against federal overreach, and prove that the principles of limited government, local control, and individual liberty aren’t just slogans—they’re a way of life.
I’m excited for the next four years of opportunity and action. Let’s clean up Idaho and set an example for the rest of the nation. Together, we can make Idaho’s independence as strong and unyielding as the mountains of Idaho. Buckle up—it’s going to be a fantastic ride!
