Blaine County Democrats Announce Unified Slate for Legislative District 26

Hailey, Idaho — The Blaine County Democratic Party today announced its full slate for Idaho’s Legislative District 26: first-time candidates Anita Janis (State Representative, Seat A) and Kevin Marsh (State Representative, Seat B), alongside incumbent State Senator Ron Taylor seeking reelection.

Together, the ticket reflects a shared commitment to strong rural communities, quality public education, stewardship of public lands, and practical, responsive leadership in Boise. “Our candidates represent the best of District 26 — leaders rooted in community and ready to serve with integrity,” said Deborah Silver, Chair of the Blaine County Democrats. “We’re proud to stand united behind this team.”

Anita Janis, Candidate for State Representative, District 26 Seat A

A lifelong educator and rural workforce development leader, Janis has built career pathways for Idaho students, managed complex public budgets, and strengthened partnerships between education and industry.

“I’m running to deliver thoughtful, responsible leadership that listens first and focuses on practical solutions,” Janis said. Her priorities include strengthening public education, expanding workforce training, protecting rural healthcare access, supporting agriculture, tourism and small businesses, and upholding fiscal responsibility.

Janis serves as Chair of the Jerome County Democrats and Secretary of the Idaho Democratic Party Rural Caucus.

Contact: anitaforidaho@gmail.com

Kevin Marsh, Candidate for State Representative, District 26 Seat B

Bellevue-area farmer, historian, and retired Idaho State University faculty member Kevin Marsh brings more than 30 years of public service — from wildland firefighting and Forest Service work to education and operating a family farm.

“I’ll work to unite, not divide, and deliver common-sense solutions that strengthen our communities,” Marsh said. His priorities include protecting public lands, supporting farms and small businesses, defending public schools, ensuring accessible government, and promoting respect and civility in public life. Marsh and his wife Erika operate Daisy’s Farm near Bellevue.

More information: KevinMarshforIdaho.com

Ron Taylor, Candidate for State Senator, District 26

Retired firefighter and paramedic Ron Taylor has represented District 26 in the Idaho Senate since 2022. A Wood River Valley resident since 1982, Taylor previously served twenty-seven years as a firefighter and paramedic with the Wood River Fire & Rescue and Ketchum Fire Department.

In the Senate, he has focused on strengthening education, protecting public lands and water resources, supporting rural economic stability, and defending individual freedoms. He serves on the Senate committees for Agricultural Affairs, Local Government & Taxation, and Resources & Environment.

“Protecting what makes our communities strong — from our public schools to our public lands — is essential to our future,” Taylor said.

More information: www.rontaylorforsenate.com

A Unified Ticket for District 26

Janis, Marsh, and Taylor bring deep community roots, professional expertise, and a shared commitment to responsible leadership that reflects rural Idaho values. “We’re energized and ready to work,” Silver said. “District 26 deserves leaders who show up, listen, and serve.”

For more information or to get involved, contact SilverforIdaho@gmail.com.

DISTRICT 26 CANDIDATES - SEAT A & SEAT B

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ANITA JANIS ANNOUNCES CAMPAIGN FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 26, SEAT A

Veteran Educator & Workforce Leader Pledges Practical Leadership for Rural & Tourism-Based Communities

Jerome resident Anita Janis announced her candidacy for Idaho State Representative in Legislative District 26, Seat A, representing Blaine, Lincoln, and Jerome counties. A lifelong educator and rural workforce leader, Janis said she is running to bring steady, practical leadership to Boise — leadership grounded in collaboration and firsthand understanding of ruralcommunities as well as agricultural, and tourism-based economies.

“I spent 14 years teaching English and adult education courses, helping working adults and first-generation students build the skills they needed for stable jobs. For nearly 15 years as a college dean, I’ve managed workforce training programs, overseen budgets, supported faculty and staff, and secured grant funding to expand career pathways,” Janis said. “My work has always focused on connecting education to real jobs by partnering with employers to make sure training reflects actual workforce needs.”

District 26 spans diverse communities — from agricultural producers in Jerome and Lincoln counties to the tourism-driven economy of Blaine County. Janis said that this diversity requires thoughtful, balanced representation.

“Our agricultural community feeds and fuels our state. Our tourism economy supports small businesses and working families across the region,” Janis said. “State policy must recognize that both sectors are essential — and that decisions made in Boise affect everything from water and infrastructure to workforce housing and healthcare access.”

Janis emphasized the importance of preserving Idaho’s public lands. “Public lands are part of our heritage and our economy,” she said. “They support ranching, recreation, tourism, and small businesses. We must protect access and preserve these lands for future generations.”

Janis’ campaign will focus on:

● Strong Schools & Workforce Development — supporting stable education funding and career pathways aligned with agriculture, healthcare, trades, small business, and recreation industries

● Rural Healthcare — protecting access to hospitals, clinics, and essential services

● Agriculture, Tourism & Small Business — promoting infrastructure investment, responsible land and water policy, and economic resilience

● Preserving Public Lands & Access — protecting working lands, recreation opportunities, and natural resources for future generations

● Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency — ensuring careful stewardship of taxpayer dollars

“I’m not running to be the loudest voice in the room,” Janis said. “I’m running to be an effective one —someone who understands how decisions ripple through our farms, small businesses, schools, public lands, and communities.”

Janis said her campaign will prioritize listening sessions across the district to ensure small business owners, farmers, ranchers, educators, healthcare providers, and working families help shape her legislative priorities. Where you live should never determine your opportunity,” Janis said. “From farm towns to mountain communities, Idaho families deserve excellent schools, accessible healthcare, economic stability, and a state government that listens. I will work every day to deliver practical results for District 26.

For more information or to get involved, contact anitaforidaho@gmail.com.

* Janis currently serves as Chair of the Jerome County Democrats where she has organized voter registration efforts, coordinated grassroots outreach, and built partnerships across the MagicValley. She also serves as Secretary of the Idaho Democratic Party Rural Caucus, a statewide group working to strengthen rural advocacy and local organizing across Idaho.

KEVIN MARSH ANNOUNCES CAMPAIGN FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE FOR DISTRICT 26, SEAT B

Marsh Brings a Career of Public Service to the Idaho Statehouse

Bellevue area resident Kevin Marsh, a farmer, retired faculty member at Idaho State University, and dedicated community leader, today announced his candidacy for State Representative, serving District 26, Blaine, Lincoln, and Jerome Counties. Marsh is running to protect the values that make Idaho strong — from protecting our resilient public lands and productive farms to thriving schools and vibrant local communities. “I will deliver what our state needs today – politicians who work to unite, not divide, and together we will deliver common-sense solutions, not politics for individual gain,” Marsh said. “Residents of Blaine, Lincoln, and Jerome counties deserve leadership rooted in community, integrity, and respect for our shared values.”

Marsh’s commitment to community and public service is grounded in his work in Idaho over the past 30 years. Today, Marsh and his wife, Erika, live on and operate Bellevue-area Daisy’s Farm, growing produce for local markets. He has demonstrated commitment to public service, and he brings to the Idaho Statehouse experience as a wildland firefighter and Forest Service ranger prior to a career as one of the state’s leading historians of Idaho and a professor at ISU.

Kevin Marsh’s Focus to Make Our Lives Better: Protecting What Makes Idaho Strong. Serving as your State Representative, Kevin Marsh will focus on strengthening and protecting:

● Public Lands - safeguarding the natural resources that support jobs, recreation, irrigation, and Idaho’s way of life

● Working Farms & Small Businesses - promoting prosperous and resilient local economies, supporting small business owners who work hard to make all our lives better

● Public Schools & Teachers - defending quality education and educators, while investing funding needed in strong schools statewide

● Diverse, Hard-Working Communities - ensuring all Idahoans have a voice in state government through making himself accessible, responsive, and committed to a stronger Idaho

● Respect for Democracy & Civility - fostering a political environment of dignity and respect

Marsh points out that “A functional government focuses on real problems, offering practical solutions. Whether it is the cost of living, protection of our lands and much needed water supply – which is already predicted to be limited in the coming seasons—strong education, or reliable infrastructure, those are the real issues that I am committed to work on with both sides of the aisle.”

As your Idaho House Representative for District 26, Marsh is committed to leadership that reflects Idaho’s values. It will be clear to voters that Kevin Marsh is dedicated to community service, stewardship of land and water, and respect for diverse voices; all important factors to keep Idaho Strong.

For more information or to get involved, visit KevinMarshforIdaho.com

Contact: Kevin Marsh for Idaho Campaign: info@kevinmarshforidaho,com or email Kevin direct at:

kevin@kevinmarshforidaho.com | Website: KevinMarshforIdaho.com

A NOTE FROM OUR CHAIR | DEBORAH SILVER

As I watched U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) make history last week, I was deeply moved. Through his courage and conviction, I saw the spirit of another legendary lawmaker shining through — the late, great Congressman John Lewis (D-GA-5). I heard John Lewis speak at the 2012 Democratic National Convention. He told us then, with unmistakable clarity: “We’re not going back.”

Last week, Senator Booker stood on the Senate floor in peaceful protest for over 25 hours, breaking a record once held by a segregationist who filibustered against the Civil Rights Act of 1957. To see that record shattered by a multicultural Black man — raised by a mother who helped organize the March on Washington — was nothing short of poetic justice. It was a moment of powerful kismet. A milestone in the long, unfinished march toward justice and equality.

Today, our civil rights — our human rights — are under attack. And our democracy is under siege, not from foreign enemies, but from forces within. This is no time for silence or stillness. We must rise up. Stand up. Speak out — just as we did on April 5 at our Hands Off Rally in Ketchum.

Join the Blaine County Democrats as we work to elect leaders who will fight back — in Washington, in Boise, and right here in District 26. Visit our website, come to a meeting or a town hall, and don’t miss the Stennett Social on May 3.

Help us keep moving forward by chipping in $25 or more to the Blaine County Democrats today.

Because we are not going back!

“Hands off” Rally PLANNED FOR HAILEY

Date: Saturday, May 17
Time: 2:00–3:30 PM
Location: Hailey (exact location to be announced)

Join the Blaine County Democrats for the second event in our “Hands Off” rally series. This rally calls on all community members to unite—not left, not right, but forward together—as we demand government accountability for dismantling vital community programs and services. We stand firm: Hands Off our Democracy, our Diversity, our Rights. More details to come.

Stop doom Scrolling and Feed Your Brain

Fresh picks to nourish your mind and fuel your hope—one book, one podcast at a time.

This Edition’s Picks:

Book: Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson

This brand-new release offers a bold, hopeful vision for America’s future. With clear-eyed analysis and contagious optimism, Klein and Thompson challenge the scarcity mindset dominating our politics and economy. Abundance argues that we can choose to build — more housing, better infrastructure, smarter systems — if we reorient our policies toward progress, inclusion, and growth. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to move beyond gridlock and dream big again.

Podcast: The Ezra Klein Show

Available wherever you get your podcasts, The Ezra Klein Show is a smart, in-depth conversation series that explores big ideas shaping our world. From politics and policy to culture and philosophy, Klein talks with leading thinkers, writers, and policymakers to uncover what’s broken—and how we fix it. It’s thoughtful, challenging, and perfect for anyone who wants to understand more and despair less.

To submit your suggestions for “Feeding Your Brain” email gglukebcd@gmail.com

BLUE VOICES: POETRY & PROSE FOR PROGRESS

In challenging times, words have the power to inspire, unite, and ignite action. We want to celebrate the voices within our community—your voices—by sharing original poetry and prose in our newsletter. Our third poem by Nancy Camp is entitled, “Miscellaneous Musings #1, The News”.

I was thinking the other day

about Stories and Headlines that play
in the News day after day after Day
like Gender Rights and Equal Pay.

Defund the Police, an unfortunate Phrase,
intentions buried in Anger and Rage.
Insurrection mires in misguided Praise.
Democracy backslides. Stability sways.

Viral videos stir media Hype,
mass Shootings, wakes by Candlelight.
Voting Rights, Asylum, these words Incite
actions by factions Without oversight.

Black Lives Matter. I know they do.
Yet worrisome Talking Points rule the news.
Murderers acquitted. Bias prevails.
Arguments conveniently omit Details.

Truth and Ethics, fall from the marquee.
Dignity and Empathy have taken a Knee.
Education questions the Value of art,
and Honesty nurses a Wounded heart.

Pro Life protections End at Birth.
Justice hinges on one’s Net Worth.
And will Anyone ever solve the Mystery
of What happens when Vigilantes rewrite History?

That was my thinking the other day.

Do you have a poem that speaks to justice, resilience, democracy, or the spirit of progress? We’d love to feature your work in an upcoming issue! Let’s uplift and inspire each other—one verse at a time. To submit a poem for consideration, email gglukeBCD@gmail.com.

Region 5 Welcomes Kevin Moxley!

Meet Kevin Moxley — Region 5’s New dem chair

Bringing Energy, Connection, & Purpose to South-Central Idaho

Meet and welcome Kevin Moxley, our recently elected Region 5 Chairman of the Idaho Democratic Party! Kevin is a U.S. Navy veteran, civic leader, and the 2026 candidate for seat 24A in the Idaho State House of Representatives. He brings a deep commitment to community-building and grassroots organizing throughout our region—which includes Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls counties.

Kevin is admired for his authenticity, his thoughtful communication style, and his deep belief that political leadership should center the voices and needs of everyday people. He’s passionate about protecting public lands, advancing education, ensuring access to health care, and defending civil rights and liberties for all.

Get to know more about Kevin in our Q&A below.

What is Region 5 of the Idaho Dem party?

Blaine County is part of Region 5. The Idaho Democratic Party (IDP) organizes its structure into seven regions, each serving as a bridge between state leadership and local county party organizations. Regional chairs help coordinate campaign planning, volunteer support, candidate recruitment, and community engagement efforts across multiple counties.

Region 5 includes: Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls counties.

The Region 5 Chair works closely with local county leaders and the IDP to build stronger networks, improve strategic alignment, and ensure every community in the region has a voice in shaping Idaho’s political future.

Q&A with Kevin Moxley, Chair of Region 5, Idaho Democratic Party

Q: What brought you to Idaho?

A: I originally came to Idaho seeking a change of pace and a greater sense of community. After living in Oklahoma and Illinois, I was drawn to Idaho’s open spaces, natural beauty, and the down-to-earth character of its people. It didn’t take long to feel at home here. Kimberly and the broader Magic Valley region have become a place where I feel deeply connected and committed.

Q: What motivated you to get involved in Idaho Democratic politics?

A: I believe every person deserves fairness, dignity, and opportunity—and I’ve seen how policy decisions at the state level directly impact people’s lives. That’s what motivated me to get involved with the local Democratic Party in Twin Falls. I wanted to help build a political home for people who care about justice, equity, public schools, human rights, and protecting our environment.

Q: Why did you seek the position of Region 5 Chairman?

A: I saw an opportunity to bring people together and strengthen our collective impact across this region. Region 5 is diverse—not just geographically, but politically and economically. I believe that if we improve coordination, support one another, and share ideas and resources across county lines, we can build a more unified and effective Democratic presence throughout south-central Idaho.

Q: Which counties are part of Region 5?

A: Region 5 includes Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls counties. Each county brings unique assets, perspectives, and energy to our work. One of my goals is to help foster greater collaboration across all of them—to make sure no county feels isolated and everyone feels part of a regional movement.

Q: What are your goals and objectives to strengthen outreach and connection between and among Region 5’s counties and to increase the effectiveness of Democratic values and policies?

A: My vision for Region 5 is focused on three key pillars:

1. Connection: We’re stronger when we communicate and collaborate. I want to create regular opportunities for county leaders and volunteers to exchange ideas, share resources, and support each other’s events and initiatives.

2. Capacity-Building: We need to grow our volunteer base, train new leaders, and invest in the tools that empower local action. Whether it’s digital organizing, precinct outreach, or event planning, I want to make sure our counties feel supported and equipped.

3. Visibility & Messaging: We must do a better job of telling our story—of showing how Democratic values make life better for working families, students, veterans, immigrants, and small business owners. That means stronger messaging, more media engagement, and an increased digital presence across the region.

Ultimately, it’s about showing up—for one another, and for the people in our communities who are looking for hope, representation, and solutions.

Q: In addition to your Region 5 leadership, you’re also running for the Idaho House of Representatives. What are your campaign priorities?

A: I’m running for District 24A because I believe Idahoans deserve leaders who listen, lead with integrity, and fight for the common good. My top priorities include:

• Fully funded public education—because investing in our kids strengthens our future.

• Protecting public lands and adopting environmentally responsible policies like composting and statewide recycling.

• Ensuring access to health care, including defending Medicaid Expansion from legislative sabotage.

• Protecting immigrant communities and treating all people with dignity.

• Safeguarding reproductive and women’s rights, promoting equality and protections for LGBTQIA2S+ communities, and ensuring veterans receive the respect, care, and benefits they deserve.

• Restoring DEI programs in Idaho’s colleges and universities.

I also believe it’s essential to improve communication between lawmakers and constituents. Leadership should be transparent and responsive—not distant or disconnected.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge you see in politics right now?

A: The biggest challenge I see is growing political division driven by misinformation, disinformation, and a loss of critical thinking. While I believe the far right has escalated this trend, we all have a role to play in rebuilding trust and civility. I try to lead by listening, by building bridges, and by staying focused on solutions that benefit the majority of Idahoans.

Q: Any final thoughts you’d like to share with Region 5 Democrats?

A: I’m incredibly honored to serve in this role and deeply grateful for your trust. I know we have hard work ahead, but I also know we have heart, grit, and determination in this region. Let’s support each other, learn from each other, and keep building a Democratic movement that reflects the best of who we are.

Connect with Kevin Moxley:

Website: www.moxleyforidaho.com

Instagram: @moxleyforidaho

Email: kevin@moxleyforidaho.com

Phone: 208-420-5993

Mail: P.O. Box 17, Kimberly, ID 83341

A Message from our Local State Senator, Ron Taylor

"Things are heating up in committees and we are starting to see several pieces of legislation designed to curtail voting rights, restrict personal rights, remove rights from marginalized communities, fund private and religious schools while taking money from public schools and attacks on our healthcare system.
Entering week six of this legislative session I continue to focus my energy on positive, thoughtful issues that support freedom, family and ensuring a better future for our children. Preserving Medicaid expansion is critical to keeping healthcare accessible and affordable for all Idahoan’s, keeping our public lands public and protecting our water resources.”

NOVEMBER UPDATE: Blaine County Election Debrief

Twenty-Five Days and Four Weekends To Go!

A MESSAGE FROM OUR BLAINE COUNTY CHAIR
Dear Fellow Democrats,
While we worked tirelessly for Democratic victories up and down the ballot at every level, we did not achieve the outcome we hoped for. This is a hard blow on many levels, but it does not diminish the immense pride I feel in the commitment shown by our Democratic candidates and the entire Blaine County community.

We celebrate the victories of State Senator Ron Taylor, Sheriff Morgan Ballis, Prosecuting Attorney Matt Fredback, and County Commissioners Lindsay Molleneaux and Angie McCleary. While State Representative Ned Burns and candidate Chris Hansen came up just short of victory, we are incredibly proud of them. They fought with unwavering dedication and embodied the ethical leadership that we stand for.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible volunteers. Whether you canvassed, made phone calls, wrote postcards, marched, waved signs, raised funds, or supported our candidates in any other way—your contributions were essential. Your dedication remains the foundation of everything we do, and we are deeply grateful for each and every one of you.
One thing that is helping me move through this dark time is that, throughout this election, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many passionate individuals and it’s clear that we have come together as a community, and that unity is something we will carry forward. These hard-won successes, even in the face of challenges, reflect the strength, resilience, and shared values that define us.

We did not achieve all that we hoped for, but together, we've created a COMMUNITY and a movement that is strong. I feel confident that we are laying the groundwork to continue our fight.

I remain committed to the work ahead and know that we are united in our vision for a more just, equitable, and prosperous district and state. Stay tuned!
In solidarity,
Deborah Silver
Chair, Blaine County Democrats

OCTOBER UPDATE: Firing On All Cylinders!

"Things are firing on all cylinders right now, and we’re excited as we approach the final days of the campaign."

- Ned Burns, Legislator for our District 26!

Twenty-Five Days and Four Weekends To Go!

What can we say? We're going to repeat ourselves here but that's because... WE HAVE 25 DAYS AND FOUR WEEKENDS TO GO! MOST IMPORTANTLY, MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE AND MAKE SURE YOUR DEMOCRATIC FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE A PLAN!

Young people are a hidden group of voters. Anyone that will be over the age of 18 before the election can vote. If they are out of state but registered to vote here, BUG THOSE YOUNG PEOPLE TO MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE! We keep saying this, but Ned Burns only won by 37 votes in the last election! EVERY VOTE COUNTS!

Early Voting Begins October 21:

Your Guide to Voting and Registration in Idaho

• Make Your Voice Heard: Don't wait until the last minute—register to vote today and take advantage of early voting starting October 21.’

• Register to Vote: You can register to vote until this Saturday, October 12 at [VoteIdaho.gov](https://www.voteidaho.gov). After that, you can register to vote on November 5th, election day. Idaho allows you to register without affiliating with a political party, though you'll be asked if you want to choose a party affiliation.

• Already registered? You can check your voter registration status by visiting https://www.voteidaho.gov or by calling the Elections Office at 208-788-5510.

• Vote Early: Early voting allows you to vote before Election Day and is available from October 21 through November 1.

• Election Day Voting: All polling places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. To find your polling place, contact the Blaine County Election Office at 208-788-5510.

• Identification at the Polls: If you plan to vote on Election Day, remember that you will need to present a valid photo ID to cast your ballot.

Absentee Voting in Blaine County is Easy and Convenient!

Request your absentee ballot online at https://voteidaho.gov/. Requests must be signed and submitted no later than 11 days before the election by 5pm.

After completing the form, send it via email to govote@co.blaine.id.us, fax to 208-788-5511, or mail to Blaine County Elections, 206 1st Ave S, Suite 200, Hailey, ID 83333.

Once you receive your absentee ballot, sign the affidavit on the return envelope. Return the ballot by mail, in person, or drop it off in the drop box at the east side of the Old Courthouse in Hailey. Ballots must be returned by 8pm on Election Day. Late ballots or unsigned affidavits will not be counted.

For questions or replacement ballots, call the Elections Department at 208-788-5510. To check your ballot status, visit https://voteidaho.gov/

Messages From Our Candidates

RON TAYLOR FOR IDAHO STATE SENATE

This week, Ron was busy knocking doors, delivering signs, attending the Community Library presentation on Proposition 1, and attending the 100 Men Who Care meeting on lack of affordable housing in Blaine county. It was super informative!

I will be door knocking almost everyday until election day. Call me to join my team! 208-831-1726! It's a great way to hear from locals and what they care about. I've had some great conversations and I look forward to taking all this input back to Boise to represent ALL my constituents!

CHRIS HANSEN FOR LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 26 LEGISLATOR

Team Chris has been joyfully collecting individual endorsements and continuing to distribute yard signs throughout the district. Our canvassing operation has been pleased to continue our partnership with Ron Taylor, showing voters the powerful combination of two public servants. We are happy to offer a Tab for Teachers tonight at La Cabinita - first drink is on Chris and Ron after parent teacher conferences! Same with Friday morning at Coffee Corner in Bellevue, Black Owl in Hailey, and Maude’s in Ketchum. Thank you for your continued support and the good vibes! We are continuing to Find a Way Forward!

NED BURNS FOR LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 26 LEGISLATOR

Over the last weekend Ned and several canvassers knocked over 2,100 doors in a hugely successful canvas. Ned also sent out over 600 postcards for a meet and greet in Jerome at Cheverria restaurant this coming Saturday from 4:30 - 6:30pm which will follow a Jerome canvas. He also sent 7,000 text messages to undecided voters and subsequently messaged with several hundred voters. "Things are firing on all cylinders right now, and we’re excited as we approach the final days of the campaign."

MORGAN BALLIS FOR BLAINE COUNTY SHERIFF

Doors, doors, doors! Our team has been focused on engaging with voters face to face in Ketchum and Sun Valley this past week. We will be knocking doors in full force until the election! Our team continues to work on placing Ballis for Sheriff signs across the valley. We hope you are enjoying the patriotic glitter on your commute!

Here are a few ways you can support Morgan Ballis for Sheriff:

• Your voice is powerful! Talk with friends and family about why you support Morgan.

• Hit the streets! Volunteer to door knock or work the tables at public events.

• VOTE! We need full voter turnout to elect Morgan and the LD26 candidates!

And a special shoutout to Blaine County Commissioners Angenie McCleary and Lindsay Mollineaux, along with Prosecuting Attorney Matt Fredrick, who are running unopposed! Thank you for your service!

SEPTEMBER Update: The Convention Was Magic! Let's Keep The Momentum Going

As we return from the exhilarating Democratic National Convention in Chicago, I am filled with a renewed sense of hope, inspiration, and an unshakeable determination to make a difference. The energy in the convention hall was electric. I wish every one of you could have been there with us! It was truly once in a lifetime!

It was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we stand united in our values and our vision for a better future. (Scroll down to see ideas of what you can do in the coming week!)

Chicago, a city that has witnessed so much history and change, served as the perfect backdrop for our gathering. There, we celebrated our progress, confronted our challenges, and laid out a bold vision for the path ahead. We heard from leaders who have fought tirelessly for justice, equality, and the rights of all Americans. Their words reminded us that we are part of something much larger than ourselves—a movement grounded in the belief that we can and must build a country where everyone has a fair shot at success.

But it wasn’t just the speeches that moved me. It was the conversations in the hallways, the shared meals, the camaraderie among more than 4,700 delegates from every corner of our nation. Each of us carried our unique stories and experiences, yet we were united by a common purpose: to fight for the soul of our democracy and to ensure that the promise of America is available to all, not just the privileged few.

Now, more than ever, we must harness this energy and bring it back home to Blaine County. We are in the final stretch of this election season, and the stakes could not be higher. The choices we make in the coming weeks will determine the future of our communities, our state, and our country.

So, I ask each of you—what will you do with this fire that has been ignited within us? Will you knock on doors, make phone calls, or talk to your neighbors about the importance of voting? Will you volunteer your time, contribute to our local candidates, and ensure that our message reaches every corner of Legislative District 26? Will you stand up and be counted, not just for yourself, but for those who cannot?

This is our moment. Let’s not let it slip away. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can bring about the change we so desperately need. Stay hopeful. Stay inspired.

And most importantly, stay fired up and, in the words of Michelle Obama, DO SOMETHING!

In solidarity,

Deborah Silver

Chairwoman, Blaine County Democrats

"The Convention is more than just the televised events—it's a deeply personal experience. Attending the Women’s Caucus with my wife and daughter, we were thrilled to hear from inspiring Democratic Congresswomen and see Governor Tim Walz fire up the crowd." — LeRoy Hayes - Blaine County Democratic Committee