Focused. United. Moving Forward Together.
A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who helped make our Clint and Michelle Stennett Social a resounding success—especially Vice Chair Pamela Ridgway, Committeewoman Bev Robinson, District 26 Chair Karen Bliss, and Treasurer GG Luke. We’re also deeply grateful to everyone who raised a paddle in support and to those currently bidding in our online auction.
The Blaine County Democrats have a dynamic lineup of upcoming events, and we invite you to stay engaged and involved:
Hands Off Rally | May 17, 11:30 AM at Hop Porter ParkNo Thrones, No Crowns, No Kings Rally | June 14, 10 AM at Hop Porter ParkLocal Pride Week | June 10–14 — Join us in celebrating and standing with our LGBTQ+ community.As soon as the Idaho Supreme Court rules on the initiative title, we’ll begin collecting signatures for the Idahoans for Women and Children’s initiative to restore reproductive rights.We are proud to support the Not a Penny More campaign to oppose private school vouchers that siphon funds from public education.And our Candidate Recruitment Committee is hard at work identifying and supporting future leaders ready to run for office. See story below.
It’s more important than ever to let our Republican legislators—at both the state and federal levels—know that we are paying attention. Visit blainecountydemocrats.org and click on the “Take Action” menu to find five simple steps you can take each week to make a difference.
We must persist. We must resist.
Join us as we continue working to keep Blaine County blue.
Celebrating leadership, Inspiring action
Democrats Pack the Stennett Social to Honor Public Servants & Rally for 2025
A fun and inspiring evening was had by all as we honored Clint and Michelle Stennett for their years of courageous leadership in the Idaho Legislature. The Hon. Richard Stallings captivated the crowd with both humor and urgency, reminding us that democracy is under threat—and it’s up to each of us to defend it. He and former Rep. Larry LaRocco have been holding town halls across Idaho, stepping in where our current congressional delegation refuses to engage.
Stallings, who beat convicted incumbent George Hansen by just 66 votes in 1984, served four terms in Congress and offered a rousing call to action. “The U.S. Constitution is a document of rebellion,” he said, “not a document of love,” countering Donald Trump’s misleading claims.
Congressional candidate Kaylee Peterson (CD1) urged us to stand united against creeping fascism, while State Sen. Ron Taylor encouraged kindness, collaboration, and neighborly respect as a foundation for progress.
We were also pleased to welcome new Idaho Democratic Party Executive Director Dakota Sharette.
Thank you to everyone who paddled up during the Stennett Social & Fundraiser—your generosity fuels our mission. Your contributions are essential to securing Democratic victories and building the strong, grassroots infrastructure we need to win in 2025 and beyond. If you made a pledge but haven’t yet fulfilled it, we encourage you to do so today. Every dollar makes a difference. Visit the Blaine County Democrats website to complete your donation and keep the momentum going.
Let’s keep the momentum going—march, rally, speak up, and support Democrats up and down the ballot!
from interest to impact:
unlocking the power of public office in blaine county
step up. speak out. lead!
Curious about making a difference in your community—but not sure where to start?
The Blaine County Democrats invite you to From Interest to Impact, an energizing three-part Candidate Recruitment Series that will pull back the curtain on public service and empower the next generation of local leaders.With 32 elected offices and over 100 appointed positions on boards and commissions in Blaine County, there are countless ways to get involved and shape the future of our valley. Whether you're ready to run or just exploring what’s possible, this series is your roadmap to real-world impact.
Join us at 5:30 PM at the Blaine County Courthouse for interactive sessions that combine inspiration, insider knowledge, and practical tools to help you take the next step.
Tuesday, June 10 – Pathways to Leadership: Serving in District 26 & Blaine County
Discover the wide range of roles—from school boards to the Statehouse—that need fresh voices like yours. Learn how your skills and experiences can translate into public service.
Tuesday, June 24 – Panel: Why & How to Run for Office
Get the inside scoop from current and former elected officials. Hear personal stories about what inspired their campaigns, what they’ve learned, and what they wish they knew at the start. (Bonus Session: Panel repeats in Jerome on Saturday, August 16)
Tuesday, July 8 – Campaign Ready: Tools, Tactics & Timelines
From filing your paperwork to knocking on doors—this session is your campaign launchpad. Learn the essential nuts and bolts of how to run (and win!) a local election.
Interested? Inspired? Questions?
Contact Brent Robinson at wbrrobin@gmail.com for details.Your community needs you—this is your moment to lead.
Blaine County Dems Online Auction — Final Days!
Don’t miss your chance to bid on 40+ fantastic items in our online auction—ending Friday, May 16 at 3:00 PM
Treat yourself to something special while supporting strong Democratic leadership in Blaine County and District 26. Every bid helps fund critical campaign efforts this election season.
Thank you for your participation—and happy bidding! Here's the link to bid!
blaine county dems next meeting - join us!
Monday, May 19 at 6:00 PM | Blaine County Courthouse | Hailey
not left, not right: forward together — Hands off rally
Sat., May 17 at 11:30 AM | Hop Porter Park | 126 W. Bullion St. | Hailey
Join us for live music, inspiring words, and a powerful march down Main Street in a bold show of unity and purpose. Bring a lawn chair, your most creative protest sign, and your voice. All are welcome—stand with us and make your presence count.
We’re rallying for: due process, civil liberties, veterans services, immigrants & immigrant families, human rights, workers rights, reproductive rights, Medicare & Medicaid, public lands, the environment, and more.
Questions or to sign up: GG Luke, gglukeBCD2gmail.com, 301-704-2022
No thrones. No crowns. No kings: A national day of action
Sat., June 14 at 10 AM | Hop Porter Park | 126 W. Bullion St. | Hailey
In America, we don’t tolerate would-be kings. On June 14, we join a nationwide mobilization to reject the authoritarian overreach, corruption, and billionaire-serving agenda of Trump and his allies. From attacks on free speech to defiance of the courts, the threat is real—and growing.
This movement isn’t about him. It’s about us—the people. The flag doesn’t belong to Trump. It belongs to all of us who believe in democracy, justice, and freedom.
Join the NO KINGS action on June 14 and help show that we’re not watching history happen—we’re making it.
Learn more at nokings.org.
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.comBLUE 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
July Update
Thanks to the volunteers that showed their Democratic pride at the Independence Day parade in Hailey!
A word from our Chair
I can’t believe the Fourth is over and we are in the heat of summer. Blaine County Dems came out in force and made our voices heard at the Hailey Fourth of July parade! I am truly inspired by all the folks that showed up and stood up!
Grass Roots Democracy in Action!
Thanks to all the Blaine County delegates who made the pilgrimage to Moscow for our state Democratic convention in June. We finalized our state party platform and elected delegates to the National Convention coming up in August in Chicago. Three representatives from Blaine County were elected to the National Convention: Aimee Christensen, Jim Fabe and myself, and we are all pledged candidates for President Joe Biden. I have to say, we may see more fireworks at the convention!
It is worth your time to take a look at our Idaho Democratic party platform.
It makes me proud that we stand for:
A quality education for every Idaho student
An economy that works for everyone
Equity, Justice, and Opportunity for All
Quality and Accessible Health Care for All
Strengthening Our Democracy
And, as a contrast, take a look at the Idaho Republican platform. It’s chilling to say the least. Open carry, abortion is murder, God in schools and government, and so many other EXTREMIST positions. Yikes!
IT IS CLEAR - WE MUST WORK HARD TO GET OUR LOCAL AND NATIONAL CANDIDATES ELECTED!
Your local support and involvement sends a message to the far right in Idaho and sends a message to our courageous candidates that are willing to stand up to this madness!
We need lots of help in lots of different ways. Every action you take makes a difference!
And as always, please support our local candidates with a donation.
Thank you!
Deborah Silver, Blaine County Democratic Chair
Team Hansen Passes Out Peanuts, Plans Goat Rodeo
Chris Hansen took a suggestion and passed out peanuts to the gathered revelers at the Hailey Fourth of July Parade. “My dad suggested it, and the more I thought about it, the more it made sense,” said the high school teacher and candidate for Idaho Representative in District 26B. "The peanut is a nutritional powerhouse, affordable, and can be used to corral elephants that have run amok.” Team Hansen was joined by four different team members under the age of 6 for the parade, and thoroughly enjoyed the outpouring of support from volunteers Erin and Tom Howland and Nate Twichell.
Next up for Hansen is a series of house parties in Hailey and Ketchum, as the political newcomer tries to meet his fundraising goal by the end of July. The part-time goat handler also announced the 1st Annual Rancho Golden Huevo Goat Rodeo as a campaign launch for volunteers and supporters. More details to follow at hansenforIdaho.com and on Facebook.
A Note from Ron Taylor
Ron will be representing Idaho later this month during the Pacific Northwest Economic Region Annual Conference. He’s been busy campaigning! Here, he is pausing for a moment to enjoy a little fun with his family at our state’s capital.
How Red State Democrats Can Impact Purple State Victories
Many Democrats in Blaine County have moved from blue and purple states and friends tell us they some times feel isolated in Idaho’s predominantly Republican landscape. We understand but your political engagement is crucial both locally and beyond Idaho. Purple states, with their delicate political balance, can greatly benefit from your activism.
Being a Democrat in a red state doesn't mean your voice is powerless. Through remote volunteering, financial support, social media advocacy, and more, you can influence elections in purple states and support Democratic candidates.
Your efforts contribute to a balanced political landscape and the success of progressive policies. Every action counts, both in Blaine County and nationwide.
Here are ways you can connect:
Make new Democratic friends! Join Us at the the “Fun”raiser at Rheinheimer Ranch on July 14th at 4 pm! (Just south of Ketchum - look for the balloons!) And while you’re there, ask some old timers about the Blue Girls Group!
Donate to Key Campaigns: Small donations to competitive races in purple states can significantly aid Democratic candidates.
Engage in Social Media Advocacy: Share and amplify Democratic candidates’ posts to boost their visibility.
Encourage Friends and Family: Motivate your contacts in purple states to get involved and vote.
Engage in Cross-State Collaboration: Coordinate with Democratic groups in purple states to strengthen campaigns.
Participate in Virtual Events and Town Halls: Engage in online events to support and learn about candidates in purple states.
Support Local GOTV Efforts: Volunteer with organizations focused on increasing voter turnout in swing states.
Volunteer Remotely: Use technology to make calls, send texts, and write postcards for campaigns in swing states.
Write Letters to the Editor: Influence public opinion by writing letters supporting Democratic candidates in purple states.
Stay Informed and Educate Others: Share reliable political information to combat misinformation and encourage voting.
Join National Organizations: Stay informed and find opportunities to contribute beyond Idaho through groups like:
GiveGreen channels donations to candidates and causes that prioritize environmental policies and climate action.
Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee works to elect Democrats to state legislatures across the country, with a focus on flipping seats in purple states.
Swing Left works to flip seats in the House, Senate, and state legislatures, particularly in swing districts and states.
Indivisible holds elected officials accountable and advocates for policy changes, supports candidates through direct action, and provides training and resources.
Emily's List elects pro-choice Democratic women at all levels of government by providing financial support, training, and strategic guidance to female candidates, with a focus on competitive races.
ActBlue facilitates online fundraising for campaigns, allowing donors to contribute easily to multiple candidates and causes.
Fair Fight Action focuses on promoting fair elections and combating voter suppression.
Support Vulnerable Democratic Incumbents in 2024
US Senate: Focus on helping Jon Tester (Montana); Sherrod Brown (Ohio); Tammy Baldwin (Wisconsin); Jacky Rosen (Nevada) and Bob Casey (Pennsylvania).
US House: Aid the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee's (DCCC) "Frontline" program by supporting incumbents in competitive districts: Mary Peltola (AK-AL); Mike Levin (CA-49); Yadira Caraveo (CO-08); Jahana Hayes (CT-05); Nikki Budzinski (IL-13); Eric Sorensen (IL-17); Frank Mrvan (IN-01); Sharice Davids (KS-03); Jared Golden (ME-02); Hillary Scholten (MI-03); Dan Kildee (MI-08); Angie Craig (MN-02); Susie Lee (NV-03); Steven Horsford (NV-04); Chris Pappas (NH-01); Gabriel Vasquez (NM-02); Pat Ryan (NY-18); Don Davis (NC-01); Wiley Nickel (NC-13); Greg Landsman (OH-01); Marcy Kaptur (OH-09); Emilia Sykes (OH-13); Andrea Salinas (OR-06); Susan Wild (PA-07); Matt Cartwright (PA-08); Chris Deluzio (PA-17); Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03); and Kim Schrier (WA-08).