Politics & Common Sense — Column by John Spencer
In the conservative heartland of Northern Idaho, particularly in Kootenai County, there exists a striking divide within the conservative network. Two distinct groups emerge: the “Zealots” and the “Zombies.”
These terms, originally highlighted by Bill O’Reilly in one of his recent editorials, capture the stark contrast between the politically engaged and the disengaged among conservatives.
It is my opinion that Zealots are tireless defenders of their values, always at the forefront of activism. The Zombies, by contrast, are passive conservatives, content to let others take the lead while they retreat into complacency. I believe this divide poses a significant challenge for the future of the conservative movement, particularly at the local level, where disengagement can have lasting consequences.
We have Zealots here, and they are relentless in their efforts, always prepared to engage in political discourse and action. These individuals organize rallies, attend town hall meetings, and vigilantly monitor local government decisions. For them, the fight for conservative values is never over. Even after significant victories, such as the election of Donald Trump, they will remain steadfast, viewing every issue as an opportunity to further their cause. They are pivotal in shaping the region’s identity.
On the other hand, we also have the Zombies—those who claim allegiance to conservative principles but remain largely disconnected from the political process. Our Zombies tend to withdraw after perceived victories, if the work of defending their values is complete. Their complacency often stems from a belief that others, such as the Zealots, will handle the heavy lifting. Many Zombies live in their own “bubble,” focusing on personal comfort and ignoring the need for consistent engagement.
The perception of living in a conservative stronghold can lull many into a false sense of security, leading them to neglect the very local government decisions that directly impact their lives.
From my perspective, many intelligent folks have little idea of how fragile our Republic can be. The result? No news awareness, no involvement, and no participation.
For the Zealots, Trump’s victory was a call to arms, inspiring them to double down on their activism and ensure that his agenda was carried out at all levels of government. For the Zombies, however, it was a moment to kick back and relax, confident that their values were secure with Trump in the White House. This dichotomy reflects a broader challenge within the conservative ranks—how to maintain momentum and engagement beyond national elections.
This dynamic can have serious implications, particularly at the local level. Local government decisions, from school board policies to zoning regulations, have a profound impact on communities. Yet, many Zombies remain unaware of or indifferent to these issues, assuming that national victories are sufficient to protect their interests.
In Kootenai County, there have been instances where low voter turnout or lack of participation allowed progressive ideas to gain traction. Due to the absence of widespread engagement among the conservative base.
The tension between Zealots and Zombies is palpable. Zealots often express frustration with Zombies for their passivity, while Zombies may view Zealots as overly aggressive or alarmist. This rift weakens our State and cities, making it less cohesive and less effective in addressing challenges. The divide also leaves Idaho vulnerable to shifts in national leadership.
If another liberal administration like that of Joe Biden takes office, it may finally wake the Zombies from their slumber. However, by then the damage at the local level may already be irreversible.
To preserve conservatism in Northern Idaho, it is crucial for both groups to rise to the occasion. Zealots must focus on outreach, finding ways to educate and motivate their less-active counterparts without alienating them. Zombies, in turn, need to step out of their comfort zones and recognize the importance of staying informed and engaged, particularly in local politics. The future of our county and cities depends on unity and shared responsibility.
Complacency is not an option, and hope is not a strategy, especially when the consequences of inaction are felt so acutely in local communities. Conservatives in Kootenai County must embrace the spirit of vigilance and responsibility, understanding that the preservation of their values requires active participation from everyone.
The divide between Zealots and Zombies serves as both a warning and a call to action. It reminds us that political victories are not the end of the journey but the beginning of a new phase of responsibility. The Irish lawyer and politician John Philpot Curran wrote in 1790, “… the price of liberty is eternal vigilance…”
Are you a Zealot or a Zombie?
