The media loves to manufacture a crisis and many politicians love to play the hero to step in and save the day!

Today’s example of this is the absolute hysteria over an Indonesian leaf called Kratom.

People in Idaho have been using Kratom for years and even decades, often for arthritis and pain management, but also mood enhancement or even opioid withdrawal.

But this 2026 legislative session the hysteria got so intense that a freshman Idaho House member drafted a bill to ban natural leaf Kratom statewide and place it on Idaho’s Schedule One List alongside meth, heroin and fentanyl.

KTVB recently ran this sensational headline calling Kratom “Gas Station Heroin.” ‘Gas station heroin’: Idaho family shares warning after mother’s death linked to potent kratom compound | ktvb.com

The article opens up with a sad story about a 50-year-old woman, Kristy Boswell, who reportedly died after taking Kratom. However, you don’t have to be a member of the Health and Welfare Committee to know that medical issues can be rather complex.

To its credit, the KTVB article states that Ms. Boswell struggled with drug and alcohol addiction during her life. So, it seems logical that her body may have been weakened by those addictions over time.

But what a lot of people get wrong is Ms. Boswell did not, apparently, take Kratom. She took a compound called 7-OH.

Now it is true 7-OH is a compound found in Kratom. Due to our technological skill we are able to isolate the chemical compound in a lab and put it into a pill and sell it.

Here’s a question, did you know you can find cyanide inside apple seeds? It’s true and if you ate enough of them eventually it would make you sick and maybe even die.

But you probably wouldn’t ask your State Representative to draft legislation to ban apples from the grocery store over it.

What was hard for me to understand in the Committee hearing was why the author wouldn’t just propose a ban on 7-OH only. There seems to be widespread agreement on that. But instead of taking the victory and removing 7-OH (gas station heroin) from the shelves, she pushed for an all-out ban on natural leaf kratom as well.

The truth is Kratom has been available to the public for decades. In the Committee hearing and in preparation for the hearing to ban Kratom and 7-OH, we learned many people had taken natural leaf Kratom for up to 20 years with much benefit.

Why would we want to take natural leaf Kratom away from people for whom it is helping?

Further, it is ironic that the people trying to ban Kratom highlight the claim that withdrawal is very dangerous, and yet that is exactly what they will be causing with their ban.

And despite using that claim for political gain, proponents of the ban offered current kratom users nothing to help them withdrawal, effectively pulling the rug out from under them with little warning.

There was a Senate bill sponsored by Sen. Tammy Nichols that would have put Kratom on a regulatory structure (like most other imported products) where Kratom would be tested before distribution but the legislation was not able to find enough support before the session concluded.

Hopefully next January if the legislature takes up the issue we can tune out the emotional over-reaction and carefully listen to all sides.

By Rep. Rob Beiswenger, Republican, District 8, Member of the House Health and Welfare Committee

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There is a strong push in my district for a local option non-property tax, commonly referred to as the resort tax, with the “bed” tax being the most frequently mentioned variant.

So, what exactly is a local option non-property tax, and why can’t my community leverage it as it is currently structured?

Idaho Code 50-1043 to 50-1049 outlines the local option non-property tax, detailing the types and sizes of cities eligible to implement it, the items that can be taxed, and the requirements for passing the tax. This tax is intended for resort cities that derive the major portion of its economic well-being from businesses catering to travelers visiting for extended stays. However, cities with populations exceeding 10,000, such as the district I represent, are excluded from this provision.

Through my research, I’ve discovered that Coeur d’Alene has been specifically exempted since the inception of this law. Conversations with locals and articles I’ve read indicate that various groups have opposed this initiative over the years. Since 1995, Coeur d’Alene leaders, with support from lobbyists, have sought to amend this legislation. Initially, in 1995, the Revenue and Taxation Committee didn’t even allow the bill to be heard, as they were attempting to utilize the sales tax option of this law. Attempts were made again in 1996 and 2011. Many constituents and candidates for local and county offices have echoed the sentiment that implementing this tax could address our budget shortfalls.

Although I have considered this idea and even drafted legislation aimed at bringing about change, my research prompts me to question why this has remained unresolved for over 30 years. Given the substantial opposition this legislation faces, what are the factors necessary for its passage? Or is it genuinely a flawed idea that should remain unchanged?

By Representative Elaine Price, District 4 Kootenai County

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Most Idahoans support law enforcement catching criminals, recovering stolen vehicles, and finding dangerous suspects. But public safety should never become an excuse for government surveillance of innocent citizens.

That is why people should be paying attention to Flock cameras and automatic license plate readers, known as ALPRs.

These cameras do more than take a picture of a license plate. They capture plate numbers, vehicle information, time, date, and location. That means a person’s movements can be searched later and pieced together into a pattern of life: where they worship, where they work, what doctor they visit, what political meeting they attend, and who they spend time with.

This is not a faraway issue. Right now, Caldwell, Nampa, and Meridian have ALPR/Flock-style cameras installed, and residents can verify locations through the public map at DeFlock.org, an open-source project mapping ALPR cameras across the country. Caldwell has installed a little over 40 cameras, and Meridian has been adding dozens of license plate reader cameras citywide.

The Fourth Amendment says the people have the right to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures. In plain English, government cannot just search you because it wants to. It generally needs probable cause, a warrant, and a specific reason.

That is where these camera networks violate the spirit, and potentially the protections, of the Fourth Amendment. One officer seeing your car drive down a public road is one thing. A government connected camera network quietly logging the movements of thousands of innocent people, storing that information, and allowing it to be searched later is something very different.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Chatrie v. United States matters here. That case dealt with Google location history data, not Flock cameras. But the Court held that police conduct a Fourth Amendment search when they obtain a person’s digital location history through a geofence warrant. The Court recognized that people have a reasonable expectation of privacy in records of their physical movements.

That same principle should apply to mass license plate tracking. When government uses technology to build a searchable database of where citizens travel, it is not just watching the road. It is tracking the people.

Discussion and legislation ideas are now occurring to address this issue in Idaho. We should not wait for abuse before putting guardrails in place. These systems should require public notice, elected-body approval, strict data sharing limits, short retention periods, public audits, and warrant protections before historical movement data can be searched.

In places like Houston, Texas, people have already taken matters into their own hands. A few Flock license plate cameras were reportedly vandalized on July 4, including poles being cut and cameras painted over. Let me be clear: I am not suggesting anyone take that action. Destroying property is not the answer. But when government installs surveillance systems without enough transparency or accountability, people lose trust.

Other communities are already pushing back. Flagstaff, Arizona canceled its Flock contract and began removing the cameras. Cambridge, Massachusetts removed its cameras and terminated its contract. Austin, Texas ended its Flock contract after public concern over privacy and data sharing. Oshkosh, Wisconsin rescinded its approval less than 24 hours after serious concerns were raised. Idaho should pay attention before these systems become normalized here.

In Idaho, Wilder residents have already pushed back through a voter initiative aimed at banning Flock cameras in their city. DeFlock Idaho has also filed tort-claim notices against both Wilder and Caldwell over the use of these systems. While Idaho has passed some limits on automated license plate readers, these local fights show that many citizens believe the current protections do not go far enough.

Public safety matters. But freedom matters too!

by Senator Tammy Nichols, Co-Chair Idaho Freedom Caucus

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This Independence Day carries special meaning as we prepare to celebrate America 250, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For nearly two and a half centuries, the United States has stood as the greatest nation on earth because it was built on liberty, faith, personal responsibility, limited government, and the belief that our rights come from God, not from government.

On July 4th, we remember the courage of our Founding Fathers, who risked their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to declare independence from tyranny. They understood that freedom is precious, and that it must be defended by each generation. John Adams once warned, “Liberty, once lost, is lost forever.” That reminder is just as important today as it was at the founding of our nation.

America has been blessed because of the principles our Founders put in place: constitutional government, individual rights, religious freedom, private property, and the rule of law. These principles have allowed families to thrive, businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and citizens to pursue the American Dream.

As we approach America’s 250th birthday, we should not only celebrate our history, but recommit ourselves to preserving it. Our children and grandchildren deserve to inherit a nation that still values freedom, honors faith, respects the Constitution, and protects the God given rights of the people.

Here in Idaho, we understand the importance of hard work, strong families, local control, and standing up for what is right. These are the values that built America, and they are the values that will keep America strong.

This Independence Day, let us celebrate with gratitude for those who came before us, pride in the country we love, and a renewed commitment to defend liberty for the next generation.

Happy Independence Day, and may God continue to bless Idaho and the United States of America.

Today, the United States Supreme Court rejected President Trump’s Executive Order ending birthright citizenship for children born to individuals who are in the United States illegally.

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The Court’s ruling effectively allows individuals from anywhere in the world, whether they enter the United States legally or illegally, peacefully or with hostile intent, to have a child who is automatically granted U.S. citizenship.

The majority of the Supreme court concluded that President Trump’s Executive Order conflicted with the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, the Equal Protection Clause.

Justice Thomas, one of the dissenting justices, argued that the 14th Amendment was adopted to guarantee equal protection and citizenship rights to newly freed slaves following the Civil War. He contended that granting automatic citizenship to the children of those who are unlawfully present in the country was never contemplated by those who drafted and ratified the amendment.

In his 91-page dissent, Justice Thomas wrote that the Court has repeatedly “repurpos[ed]” the Constitution “to protect its own set of preferred rights that the Reconstruction Congress never contemplated and that cannot find support in its text.” He continued:

“Today, the Court does so again by recognizing a constitutional right to citizenship for the children of all foreign birth tourists and illegal aliens.”

Justice Alito condemned the decision with a direct rebuke:

“This is one of the most important decisions in the history of the Court, and in my judgment, the Court has made a serious mistake.”

From our perspective, the court interpreted the Constitution in a way that extends beyond its original meaning and intent, twisting it to say what they wanted it to say.

This decision makes it even more important that states do everything within their constitutional authority to discourage illegal immigration, enforce existing laws, remove illegal immigrants from our state and country and prevent unlawful entry in the first place.

On a positive note, two other Supreme Court Cases on Immigration were also decided earlier in the week:

Asylum Restrictions (Mullin v. Al Otro Lado) The Court sided with the Trump administration, that border officials can legally reject asylum seekers who present themselves while standing on foreign soil. The justices found that non-citizens must physically cross the border into the United States to gain the legal right to apply for asylum. This ruling allows the government to utilize “metering” policies to limit daily asylum intake at official ports of entry.

Temporary Protected Status-TPS (Mullin v. Doe) In another win for the administration’s deportation agenda, the Court ruled that the federal government has full discretion over TPS designations, allowing officials to end deportation protections and work permits for roughly 350,000 Haitians and 4,000 Syrians. The 6-3 majority determined that the TPS statute explicitly bars federal courts from reviewing the administration’s non-constitutional decisions to end these humanitarian programs.

This year, the Idaho Freedom Caucus took a strong stand against illegal immigration by authoring and sponsoring a series of bills designed to push back against policies we believe encourage unlawful entry into our country.

The Idaho Freedom Caucus remains committed to advancing policies that uphold the rule of law, secure our borders, and protect the interests of Idaho citizens.

The Idaho Freedom Caucus

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When most people think about elected legislators, they think about the work done during the legislative session at the Idaho Capitol. But for members of the Idaho Freedom Caucus, defending liberty and constitutional principles doesn’t begin and end in Boise. It’s a year-round endeavor.

Many of our Caucus members are also actively involved in their local Republican Party organizations. Recently many of us participated in the Idaho Republican Party State Convention. This involvement helps ensure we do our part to keep the Idaho Republican Party grounded in the principles of limited government, individual liberty, personal responsibility, strong families, and constitutional governance.

What Is the Idaho GOP Convention?

The Idaho Republican Party State Convention is held every two years and brings together delegates from across Idaho to conduct party business. Delegates represent Republican voters from their local legislative districts, counties and precincts (voting regions).

The Convention serves several important purposes:

• Electing party leadership

• Debating and adopting party rules

• Updating the Idaho Republican Party Platform

• Considering resolutions on important public policy issues

• Building relationships between grassroots activists and elected officials

• Setting the direction and priorities of the Republican Party moving forward

In many ways, the Convention serves as the voice of Republican grassroots members throughout Idaho. Our Republican Party Platform reflects the values and priorities that Republican voters expect their elected officials to champion. Being involved keeps us connected to the grassroots citizens who elected us.

Idaho Freedom Caucus Members in Action

This year’s convention saw strong participation from Idaho Freedom Caucus members serving in a variety of leadership and committee roles. Our Idaho Freedom Caucus members used the opportunity to meet with other legislators and discuss legislation for the upcoming session.

Rep. Tony Wisniewski: Served as a delegate and as the Chair of the Legislative District 5 delegation, which covers part of Kootenai County.

Rep. Elaine Price: Served as a Kootenai County delegate and on the Rules Committee, while also assisting with convention work involving the Credentials and Platform Committees.

Rep. Kyle Harris: Served as a Legislative District 7 delegate representing Idaho, Adams, and Nez Perce counties.

Rep. Rob Beiswenger: Participated as the Vice Chair of the Legislative District 8 delegation which covers Elmore, Valley, Boise and Custer counties. He spent time at the convention challenging positions he believed were inconsistent with the liberty-minded principles many Idaho Republicans expect from party leadership.

Sen. Tammy Nichols: Served as a Canyon County delegate, worked on the Credentials Committee, and introduced and passed a resolution supporting the federal SAVE Act.

Rep. Cornel Rasor: Remained actively engaged throughout convention activities serving as the Parliamentarian for two committees and for the general sessions.

Sen. Phil Hart: Served on the Platform Committee and as Chair of the Shoshone County delegates. He also continues to serve in a leadership role in rebuilding and strengthening his local county Republican organization.

Rep. Dale Hawkins: Served as a Legislative District 2 delegate, representing parts of Bonner and Kootenai counties and all of Shoshone, Benewah and Clearwater counties. He also served as a member of the Rules Committee.

The Idaho Freedom Caucus was founded on the belief that representative government works best when elected officials remain connected to the people they serve. That means showing up not only at the Capitol, but also in county central committees, legislative district organizations, town halls, grassroots events, and state party meetings.

From local precinct meetings to statewide policy debates, the work of preserving liberty requires engagement at every level. Idaho Freedom Caucus members understand that protecting Idaho’s conservative values is a year-round effort, and the Idaho GOP Convention is one of the many places where that work continues.

The Idaho Freedom Caucus members would like to congratulate former Idaho Freedom Caucus member Dorothy Moon on her re-election as Idaho Republican Party Chairman! And thank you Dan Murphy for all the great photos!

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Joined by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., podcaster Joe Rogan, and other advocates, President Trump acknowledged that the rate of suicides, 22 a day for our veteran population, is too large to ignore, and that embracing their use for certain treatments rather than continuing to criminalize psychedelics may be a new beneficial path forward.

While many were surprised by the President’s announcement, the groundwork had been laid in a previous National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), in which the Trump Administration added ibogaine, psilocybin, and other psychedelics to a list of medicines that states could begin administering in controlled environments to voluntary participants. This will allow treatment research in this field, banned in the 1960’s, to restart. In a recent NDAA request, the Pentagon and Department of War asked for $10 million in funding to study psychedelics.

Now instead of traveling to Mexico where these medicines are legal, people in the U.S. would have access to treatments here at home that have been used historically in other countries across the globe.

Researchers at Stanford University recently conducted a study with 30 combat veterans, all suffering from PTSD or TBI, and all desperate for an alternative treatment to the VA-prescribed pills they were taking.

These veterans were flown to an ibogaine treatment facility in Mexico where brain scans were conducted before and after treatment. After a single ibogaine treatment in Mexico, roughly 80% of the soldiers lost their PTSD diagnosis, based on the scans. That number increased to 95% after a second treatment. (The story of these veterans was chronicled in the award-winning Netflix documentary “In Waves and War.”)

During the 2026 legislative session, I introduced a bill that would have created a pilot program in Idaho for research into treating PTSD and TBI for our veterans and first responders.

House Bill 899, named the “Medical Advanced Healing Act,” quickly picked up co-sponsors in the House and Senate, but was introduced too late in the process to secure a full hearing.

My bill did not request any taxpayer money for the program, although it would certainly be justified given the dramatic need to help our veterans. My simple goal is to make these treatment options fully available.

Currently, ibogaine, psilocybin and MDMA are considered Schedule 1 drugs, making them illegal. To be on Schedule I, a drug must be considered addictive and have no medical benefit. In the case of ibogaine, the opposite is true. Ibogaine is not a party drug, but rather it makes you quite miserable during treatment. No one wants to use ibogaine more than one or two times, and the known medical benefits are now being proven by researchers.

There are no known currently accepted treatments for PTSD or TBI that have shown to be anywhere near as effective as ibogaine and similar medicines.

With the Trump administration showing proactive leadership on this important veteran issue, it is my hope that Idaho will follow suit and allow access to these life-saving medicines by the end of the 2027 legislative session. Our veterans and first responders deserve nothing less.

By Representative Rob Beiswenger, Idaho Freedom Caucus

Many of our members will be heading into the general election in November with Democrat opponents, so please stay engaged!

We want to thank you so much for your continued support and hope you have a great Memorial Day weekend!

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President Trump recently announced his intention to temporarily suspend the federal gas tax to provide much-needed relief at the pump as fuel prices surge.

While technically it is Congress that is responsible for setting taxes and tariffs according to the U.S. Constitution, we stand firmly behind this commonsense initiative to push Congress to act on behalf of the citizens and economy. As inflation and the cost of living continue to climb, we believe the Idaho government should consider aligning with this idea by stopping any future tax increases on the people of Idaho.

While national policies make headlines, our work on the ground in Idaho never stops.

Our dedicated state legislators are working year-round, keeping up to date on current issues to deliver real results. We continually look for waste of taxpayer dollars and for ways to decrease tax burdens across the board. We believe that empowering Idaho means letting you keep more of the money you work so hard to earn.

We will keep you updated on this important issue.

Idaho Freedom Caucus

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Please consider a gift of any amount to directly support our caucus member’s re-election campaigns. Checks can be sent to Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC 1107 East Sherman Ave. CDA, ID 83814 or you can donate online.

Idaho is at a crossroads. Growth, outside influence, changing economies, and advancing technologies are bearing down on our state, threatening our way of life. And on the heels of an important election, the responsibility of engaging in debate or even voting at all has become a shrugged off nuisance to many.

Meanwhile, the political establishment, lobbyists, and outside interests are working harder than ever, spending heavily to influence Idaho’s future. They know Idaho remains one of the last strong conservative states in America and it galls them. Change Idaho and they can change the entire West.

Showing up to vote in these local races matters so much!

In most parts of Idaho, the Republican primary is the most important election because whoever wins the primary most likely will win the election in November. The decisions made in these races will shape the future of our state for years to come; from the future of property taxes and spending to parental rights, property rights, technology controls, election integrity, education, public safety, agriculture, and the preservation of the Idaho values that built this state.

That is why Idaho Freedom Caucus members have been putting in the long hours hosting meet-and-greets, knocking doors to talk directly with voters, and attending local candidate forums. We believe representation starts with listening to the people, not the lobbyists. And we believe the work is worth it, to keep Idaho free.

But while grassroots conservatives are out working, the political machine is ramping up. Misleading mailers, attack ads, and establishment money are already flowing against conservatives who voted this session to reduce the bloated budget and push back on government overreach. And outside organizations are spending heavily to defeat conservatives who refused to operate in the big government status quo club.

Why? Because the Idaho Freedom Caucus is making an impact.

Our members ask hard questions.
We challenge bloated spending.
We push back against government overreach.
We stand for faith, family, freedom, and the Constitution even when it is unpopular with the political establishment.

And we are not backing down.

But campaigns require resources.

Fuel to travel across Idaho.
Materials for events and voter outreach.
Mailers to combat misinformation.
Signs, literature, advertising, and grassroots organizing.

That is where you come in.

Six of our members have opponents on May 19th. Your donation to the Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC helps support conservative legislators who are willing to fight for Idaho’s future and stay connected to the people they represent.

Now is the time to stay engaged.
Now is the time to support strong conservative leadership.
Now is the time to fight for Idaho.

If you believe Idaho is worth protecting, please consider making a contribution to the Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC today. Click on the button below.

Together, we can keep Idaho free.

In Liberty,

The Idaho Freedom Caucus

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Please consider a gift of any amount to directly support our caucus member’s re-election campaigns. Checks can be sent to Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC 1107 East Sherman Ave. CDA, ID 83814 or you can donate online.

Thousands of families across Idaho place a high value on freedom, personal responsibility, safe communities, limited government, and the right to chart their own future. It’s why they live here, because they understand these principles are the foundation of the true American way of life.

That is why the work of the members of the Idaho Freedom Caucus matters.

Our members believe elected officials should do more than campaign as conservatives; they should govern as conservatives. That means standing up for truth even when it’s not easy and standing up for lower taxes, even when it means making hard decisions. It means protecting constitutional liberties, defending parental rights, supporting law enforcement, preserving Idaho agriculture, securing elections, and keeping government accountable to the people.

All of our caucus members are once again stepping up to be re-elected on May 19th. These men and women have shown they are willing to stand firm, ask hard questions, challenge the status quo, and fight for the values Idaho families hold dear.

Idaho can continue to have a bright future being a leader in conservative values and promoting strong communities. That future requires legislators with courage, and leaders willing to vote the right way even when it is unpopular with the herd mentality in the Capitol. It also requires informed voters.

Today, labels alone are not enough. Some candidates know they cannot win in conservative Idaho districts by openly running as Democrats, so they attempt to run as Republicans while advancing very different policies once elected.

That is why voters must do their homework.

Look beyond campaign slogans. Study voting records, past and present social media posts and candidate statements. Evaluate their endorsements. Understand where they stand on taxes, spending, parental rights, public safety, and limited government.

Don’t be fooled by glitzy campaign mailers. Know the facts because you are informed. Mail pieces can be designed to create an image that does not match a candidate’s actual record or positions. Always look deeper than what arrives in your mailbox.

Across Idaho, strong conservative voices are working to preserve our communities and way of life. Idaho Freedom Caucus members continue that mission by protecting what makes Idaho special while preparing for the future. You can view our members and their websites HERE.

Thank you for joining us in this mission. Please continue to stay engaged and help educated others as Idaho is worth the effort!

In Liberty,

The Idaho Freedom Caucus

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Idaho has experienced staggering growth and leads the nation as one of the most desirable places to live. This comes at a cost to all of us who call this place home. Some say Idaho is at a precipice, that the conservative traditional family values we hold dear are being chipped away, threatening to turn our beautiful state into either a playground for the rich or another paradise destroyed by the ideology imported from our West Coast neighbors.

As Idaho State legislators, we see this shift taking place in the halls of the Capitol, in our communities, and across the landscape. If we don’t stand up together with citizens who care and join forces, liberalism will continue to infect Idaho. We believe Idaho is worth fighting for.

How can we do this together? The Idaho Freedom Caucus members are on front lines, uniquely positioned not only to write meaningful laws rooted in conservative values but to also champion traditional values and stand as a bulwark against the liberal tide seeking to undermine our prosperity, our values, our constitutional freedoms, and our way of life.

In this most recent 2026 session, we introduced and fought for legislation addressing critical issues at their source. We’ve taken on illegal immigration, bloated government spending, and violent criminals profiting from their crimes. We’ve worked to protect children by pushing back against transgender ideology in schools, opposed the control mechanisms of programmable money, and advanced crucial medical freedom initiatives.

The Idaho Freedom Caucus is NOT a lobbyist group or online personality. We are a team of proven conservative legislators you can count on to push back against government overreach.

As we look ahead to 2026 elections, many of our legislators have challengers in their districts. As a PAC, we aim to ensure that our Caucus members are able to continue to work for you. Our vision is simple: to defend liberty and deliver results for you, our neighbor and constituents.

Your generous gift of $50, $100, $500, $2000, or more can empower us to continue help reelect these legislative warriors. Join us in this crucial fight today - your contribution fuels our fight.

Here is a secure link to make your donation today and support IFC legislator election campaigns. https://secure.anedot.com/idahofreedomcaucuspac/ifc2026

Thank you for your continued support!

In Liberty,

Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC

This legislative session, the Idaho Freedom Caucus members delivered real results for Idaho families. From protecting constitutional rights and strengthening election integrity, to cutting government overreach, restoring fiscal responsibility, and defending parents and children, our members led and ensured passage of a large slate of strong legislation.

Members worked on hundreds of their own bill ideas, while reviewing thousands of other proposed ideas. Seventy-five of our team’s bills were signed into law and reflect what Idahoans have been asking for: greater transparency, stronger protections, and a leaner government that works for the people, not against them.

Below is a general summary of 2026 legislative ideas that were sponsored or co-sponsored by our members that became law. The entire list of all bills that were introduced and their specific details can be reviewed here.

Justice / Public Safety / Courts

• S1232 –Criminals can’t profit from their crimes

• S1296 – Criminal trespass at churches

• S1369 – Locations of filings for civil actions

• H541 – Enticing a child stricter penalties

• H560 – Allows jurors to volunteer as poll workers in lieu of jury duty

• H575 – Asset forfeiture reporting to State Controller

• H581 –Legislative review of Supreme Court rules

• H635 – Education Professional Standards Commission reporting of crimes

• H772 – Industrial hemp producers regulatory limits

• H776 – Child safety checks for children under 1 year old

• H518 – Human trafficking, AG authority to investigate

• H615 – Disturbing the peace at churches

• H642 – Public safety officer benefits for death in line of duty

• S1239 – Sex offender restrictions near day care facilities

Education

• S1335 – Medical & vet students working in Idaho

• S1412 – Student safety / disclosure of misconduct involving students

• H623 – Moment of silence in class

• H711 – School administration alternative authorization

• H728 – Certification for classified staff

• H731 – Federal scholarship opt-in

• H846 – Student enrollment counts

• H516 – No taxpayer dollars for teacher’s union activities

Sovereignty / Constitutional Rights / Elections / Integrity

• S1299 – Digital ID limitations for government

• H650 – State sovereignty jurisdiction

• H602 – American Laws for American Courts (prohibits foreign law)

• H558 – Federal benefits for children in state legal custody

• H872 – Ballot preparation, general elections

• H548 –Fourth amendment protections for boating searches

• SJM112 – Balanced budget – request for federal restraint

Health Freedom

• S1269 – Cloud seeding program provisions

• S1270 – Labeling requirements for cell cultured proteins (Lab-grown meat)

• H528 – Directed blood transfusions for patients and donors

• H648 – Coverage of oral anticancer medications

Economy / Workforce / Prosperity

• S1286 – Veterans consumer protection of benefits

• H507 – Military justice code non judicial punishment

• H514 – Barber & cosmetology exams upon 80% completion of education hrs

• H832 – Career technical education certificates

• HJM20 – Federal education funding of immigrants

• S1352 – Prohibits cities from banning starter home subdivisions

• S1354 – Prohibits cities from banning accessory dwelling units

• H879 – Sale of industrial hemp products for ingestion or inhalation

• H 563 – Certified public accountants-reduction of barriers

Traditional Values / Social Policy

• H504 – Lottery ticket buying limits

• H752 – Restroom/changing room protections

• H856 – Protection of human remains

• H542 – Social media addiction protections

• H822 – Parental rights (secretive gender transitions at schools)

• HCR24 – Resolution honoring Coeur d’ Alene firefighters

• H544 – Revisions for leave of absence from regular duties for military

• H663 – Agriculture license plates

Government Oversight / DOGE / Code Cleanup and Removal of Code

• S1236 – Women’s commission repeal

• S1248 – Capital crimes cleanup language

• S1249 – Time zones cleanup language

• S1265 – Petroleum / clean water cleanup language

• S1320 – State controller cleanup language

• H593 – DEQ cleanup language

• H799 – Alcoholic beverages cleanup language

• H798 – Treasurer lending cleanup language

• H893 – Codifier corrections

Finance / Budget / Appropriations

Several of our members are on the Joint Appropriations and Finance Committee which met nearly every day to address and finalize Idaho’s annual budget. This year has been the first year in decades that the committee had a conservative majority and could actually secure real meaningful cuts to the budget.

Idaho Freedom Caucus member are proud of these efforts and happy to report that the 2026 budget and the 2027 budget have both decreased! It’s simple: if Idahoans must live within their means, so do state agencies.

Below are a few highlighted results from these budget cutting efforts:

Significant Spending Reductions: Successful passage of mid-year budget cuts totaling over $130 million from the General Fund, eliminating non-essential government spending.

Requiring Budgeting Best Practices: Eliminated automatic budget increases for state agencies based on their perceived need. Instead, budget process started with a reduced baseline and required every agency to justify each dollar they requested from taxpayers.

Across-the-Board Agency Cuts: To ensure the government is as fiscally responsible as Idaho families, most state agencies saw meaningful budget reductions of up to 5%, while still protecting crucial services.

Deficit to Surplus: Renewed focus on aligning ongoing state spending with state ongoing revenue, rejecting the use of one-time funds for recurring expenses. This strategic shift transformed a projected $100 million deficit for FY 2027 into a $26 million surplus.

Realistic Revenue Forecasting: By basing the state budget on realistic and responsible revenue estimates, the budget process avoided the temptation of using inflated projections and spending money not available. This responsible approach now allows Idaho to fully implement the Trump tax cuts, which will save Idahoans over $150 million each year starting in FY 2026.

Boosting State Reserves: The 2026 budgeting decisions prioritized a positive ending balance to protect Idaho from future economic downturns. As a result, we turned a projected $25 million ending balance for FY 2027 into a robust $230 million surplus.

Reinforced Accountability: The 2026 budget process increased transparency and oversight by requiring agencies to provide a line-by-line justification for their expenditures, fostering a culture of performance and fiscal responsibility.

The 2026 legislative session marked another year of significant victories for Idahoans and members of the Idaho Freedom Caucus are proud to have played key roles in getting this done. We successfully achieved several important goals, including cutting wasteful government spending, protecting children from abuse and strengthening parental rights. We also made strides in improving housing affordability, reforming our court system, expanding health freedom and nutrition transparency, and ensuring the integrity of our elections.

Our Work Continues

As the world becomes unstable and uncertain around us, Idaho Freedom Caucus members understand the importance of creating and maintaining a state where freedoms, liberties and families are afforded a place to call home. Whether we are in session or back in our districts, we are constantly engaging to understand the needs of our constituents and working to safeguard our community and traditional values. You are the reason we do this work.

If you want to help us keep upholding the values and principles that you hold dear, please support our work today.

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Hello friends and supporters,

As we approach the end of the 2026 legislative session, we are gearing up for campaign season. This year, seven of our Idaho Freedom Caucus members are facing challengers in their districts. Here is a brief breakdown of who our legislators are and what they fight for:

Representative Steve Tanner serves the people of District 13 (Nampa). Throughout his time in office he has remained committed to defending the values that make Idaho strong. He has consistently fought to protect our Second Amendment rights, cut taxes for hardworking Idahoans, and ensure our elections are secure. He has introduced legislation to protect the innocence and safety of children while passing legislation to ensure that Idaho courts use American laws.

Representative Rob Beiswenger serves the people of District 8 (Mountain Home, McCall, Garden Valley, Cascade, Idaho City, Horseshoe Bend, Challis, Glenn’s Ferry, and Mackay). Rob is known for leading the fight to pass the first-in-the-nation Medical Freedom Act to eliminate vaccine and mask mandates in Idaho. He eliminated income taxes on veterans’ retirement income and supported a major tax relief package in 2025, reducing the individual and corporate income tax rate from 5.695% to 5.3%.

Representative Kyle Harris proudly represents the people of District 7 (Lewiston). As a small business owner and strong supporter of limited government, he has made valuable contributions to curbing its growth in Idaho, including cutting government spending by 4% in 2026 and 5% for 2027. Kyle will continue to work to lower taxes, hold businesses accountable for hiring illegal aliens, reduce regulation, and bring transparency and accountability back to government.

Representative Elaine Price. As a small business owner and proven conservative legislator for Coeur d’Alene, she has served the people of District 4 since 2022. She has consistently delivered impactful results through her role in the finance committee by cutting funding to bloated government. She advocates for education reform, protecting children, and protecting constitutional rights. Elaine has taken the lead to protect Idahoans’ privacy and rights in upcoming new technologies like programmable money.

Representative Dale Hawkins currently serves the people of Idaho’s legislative District 2 (Bonner, Kootenai, Clearwater, Benewah, Shoshone counties). Since his election in November 2022, he has been a steadfast advocate for the principles of individual liberty and limited government. His legislative record reflects a deep commitment to fighting for smaller government, lower taxes, parental rights, and expanded school choice. He has actively worked to bring transparency to the illegal immigration issues in Idaho, and serves as the chairman of the House Education Committee.

Representative Cornel Rasor As a small business owner and the current representative for District 1, proudly serves the people of Boundary County and part of Bonner County. He is a staunch advocate for a range of conservative principles, including Second Amendment rights, the protection of state lands, and the growth of small businesses. Cornel is also committed to lowering taxes for Idahoans, protecting parental rights, and defending the rights of the unborn.

Representative Vito Barbieri (District 3 Kootenai county) is dedicated to protecting individual freedoms, holding government accountable, and preserving the traditions and opportunities that make Idaho a great place for families to thrive. He works tirelessly to ensure that Idaho's communities remain free, prosperous, and true to the Idaho way of life.

The Idaho Freedom Caucus is not a lobbyist group or online personality. We are a team of proven conservative legislators you can count on to push back against government overreach and the Left - sharply and successfully. As we look ahead to 2026 elections, many of our Legislators have challengers in their districts. As a PAC, we aim to ensure that our Caucus members are able to continue to work for you. Our vision is simple: to defend liberty and deliver results for you, our neighbor and constituent.

Your generous gift of $50, $100, $500, $2000, or more would empower us to continue to challenge unconstitutional laws that undermine your values, your financial gains, and your freedom from government overreach. Join us in this crucial fight today - your contribution fuels our fight.

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Meet the Sackett’s.

Almost 20 years ago, Mike and Chantell Sackett purchased property near Priest Lake, Idaho to build a family home where they could enjoy Idaho’s beauty. Their plans were abruptly halted when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared their property contained wetlands and that preparing the lot violated the Clean Water Act. The EPA ordered the Sacketts to abandon their work immediately, threatening severe, life-altering penalties upwards of $20,000 per day. The agency unjustly classified the residential lot as “waters of the United States” simply because it sat near a ditch that fed into a creek connected to an intrastate lake.

Refusing to surrender their constitutional rights, the Sacketts partnered with the Pacific Legal Foundation and sued the EPA to defend their private property rights. Because the federal District Court and the Ninth Circuit affirmed the EPA’s overzealous environmental regulations and broad interpretations of ecological standards, the Sacketts and the Pacific Legal Foundation’s attorney, Damien M. Schiff, escalated their fight to the highest court in the nation. Through hard work and tenacity, they secured two victories at the United States Supreme Court. Their hard work ensures that the laws of the land are enforced and that federal agencies like EPA are reined in.

HJM013: Enforcing the Law of the Land.

Our Idaho Freedom Caucus event this week was designed to shed light on critical water issues like the Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court case. The Caucus supports House Joint Memorial HJM013. This piece of legislation will:

codify the United States Supreme Court decision in Sackett v Environmental Protection Agency, et al., 598 U.S. 651 (2023), concerning waters of the United States (WOTUS). The decision found that the EPA and US Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE) exceeded their legal authority and the Court established a new standard for determining what is included in WOTUS and what is subject to federal jurisdiction. The Memorial also requests the EPA and USACOE follow the Court decision.

Idaho Freedom Caucus stands firm in our unwavering dedication to protect Idaho citizens and communities from bureaucratic overreach.

Watch the video below ⬇️

Election Season is Officially Here.

As Idaho Freedom Caucus legislators announce their re-election campaigns, they are facing opposition. This is where the Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC plays a crucial role. To keep proven conservative leadership in office across our great state, we need to ensure these dedicated public servants can continue their work in the legislature.

Your monthly or one-time donation to this PAC is an effective way to help keep our legislators in office, where they will keep working for you—the people of Idaho. Stand with us today by donating to protect Idaho’s future.

Stand With Us

“Sometimes courts are asked to consider foreign laws in contract disputes. This bill simply makes clear that Idaho courts cannot apply any foreign law if it violates the rights protected by the U.S. or Idaho Constitutions.”

-Representative Steve Tanner, District 13, Seat B

American laws for American courts may seem like a simple, expected principle in our judicial system. However, the practice of considering foreign laws in domestic courts is not new. Unfortunately, case law dating back to 1924 shows instances where foreign laws have been used to determine verdicts in American courts. Even our U.S. Supreme Court has commented extensively on this phenomenon:

Justice Samuel Alito stated at his own confirmation hearing: “I don’t think that it’s appropriate or useful to look to foreign law in interpreting the provisions of our Constitution.”

To address this growing trend, Representative Steve Tanner (13B) is leading the charge to ensure only the principles of the U.S. and Idaho State Constitutions are applied in our state courts. This is a crucial step in upholding our legal framework. Citizen’s should not tolerate the undermining of our American principles of self-governance through the citing of foreign law to support a particular reading of domestic law.

What Does This Legislation Do?

House Bill 602 is simple: it establishes that foreign laws cannot be applied in a way that violates fundamental rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution or the Idaho State Constitution. It aims to ensure that citizens’ rights, such as due process, freedoms of religion, speech, privacy, and legal marriage as defined by the constitution, are protected from being undermined by foreign legal systems or agreements.

Key points of the bill:

1. Court rulings or contracts that rely on foreign laws conflicting with these fundamental rights will be deemed void and unenforceable.

2. It clearly defines “foreign law” and excludes tribal laws and English common law from this definition.

3. Religious organizations retain their rights to self-govern on ecclesiastical matters without interference from this legislation.

4. The bill does not apply retroactively to contracts made before its effective date, nor does it override federal treaties or international agreements or apply to corporations, limited liabilities corporations, etc.

For citizens, this means added legal protection against the enforcement of foreign laws or contracts that could compromise their constitutional rights within the state of Idaho. It emphasizes safeguarding individual freedoms as well as the freedom of companies and corporations to contract internationally, while respecting existing treaties and religious autonomy.

Update: HB602 passed the House on February 23, and is waiting for a hearing in Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee.

We will keep you updated and are grateful for your support of the Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC.

Learn more about Representative Steve Tanner and connect with him by visiting:

Steve's Website

Programmable money allows the bankers who’ve been running monetary policy to now control fiscal policy and essentially replace legislatures.

- Catherine Austin Fitts

A digital control grid is not-so quietly being built around us, and many are still unaware of its profound implications. This infrastructure isn’t just about surveillance; it’s a comprehensive system designed to monitor and control individuals by integrating programmable money, digital IDs, and expanding local surveillance hardware. If you are questioning the nefarious nature of the push for digital ID and programmable money, just take a look at who is backing this. A quick Google search reveals strong support from the UN, Bank of International Settlements, The Gates Foundation, The World Bank, JP Morgan, Federal Reserve of Atlanta, International Monetary Fund, World Economic Forum, Forbes, and the European Central Bank. History has taught us - or should have - that these “organizations” are the control mechanism behind much of what goes on internationally and here in the United States.

This isn’t far-fetched speculation based on rumors or fear-mongering. This is a long-held plan for America and the nations that we are seeing unfold right now. Take for example what Carroll Quigley, archivist for the Council on Foreign Relations and mentor to Bill Clinton shares in his lengthy apologetic for imperialism and central control of the world through private banking:

“The powers of financial capitalism had another far-reaching aim, nothing less than to create a world system of financial control in private hands able to dominate the political system of each country and the economy of the world as a whole. This system was to be controlled in a feudalistic fashion by the central banks of the world acting in concert, by secret agreements arrived at in frequent meetings and conferences. The apex of the systems was to be the Bank for International Settlements in Basel, Switzerland, a private bank owned and controlled by the worlds central banks which were themselves private corporations. Each central bank...sought to dominate its government by its ability to control Treasury loans, to manipulate foreign exchanges, to influence the level of economic activity in the country, and to influence co-operative politicians by subsequent economic rewards in the business world.” 1

It doesn’t get more clear than that, folks. At the heart of this shift is programmable money, a concept that threatens to move power from our elected legislative bodies directly into the hands of bankers. This would allow them to control not just monetary policy, but fiscal policy as well, essentially creating a system where financial transactions can be controlled in real-time, much like a social credit system.

This isn’t a distant threat. Surveillance infrastructure, often funded by our own taxpayer dollars, is rapidly expanding in communities across the US. These systems are increasingly integrated with advanced technology, including weaponry and AI, designed to manage financial and spatial data within this digital grid. Your biometric data becomes a key component, linking your digital ID to this vast network of surveillance and control.

VIDEO: Senator Tammy Nichols introduces SB1299. ⬆️

In response to these dangers, Senator Tammy Nichols, alongside Representatives Heather Scott and Elaine Price, introduced legislation to protect Idahoans from these control mechanisms.

Senate Bill 1299 (S1299) - The purpose of this legislation is to ensure that digital identification is not required to access government services in Idaho. This legislation protects the right of Idahoans to use physical identification, prevents government from requiring access to personal electronic devices, and limits the collection and use of digital identification data. It also provides remedies when violations occur.

House Bill 750 (HB750) - This legislation defines and regulates the use of “programmable money” in Idaho by excluding it from existing definitions of money under the Uniform Commercial Code and establishing a new framework to protect consumer payment rights. The bill limits the ability of issuers to control, restrict, or deny transactions based on lawful personal characteristics or activities, prohibits the use of social credit scoring through programmable money, and requires transparency when transactions are denied. It also provides civil remedies, attorney’s fees, and criminal penalties to ensure enforcement while preserving the lawful use of digital assets and alternative forms of payment.

These legislative efforts mark a crucial stand against the quiet creep of digital control. The convergence of programmable money, digital surveillance, and AI isn’t accidental; it’s a strategic move towards centralized authority that threatens our basic freedoms. We believe no one should be forced into a system of digital tracking or programmable currency. The work of Senator Nichols and Representatives Heather Scott and Elaine Price on these bills shows that we can, and must, push back. By understanding the stakes and supporting such measures, we can safeguard our privacy, protect our civil liberties, and ensure our financial autonomy for generations to come.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments or reach out to us at: contact@idahofreedomcaucus.org.

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If you’ve spent any time in Idaho (or anywhere in the United States), you’ve probably noticed the lines in the sky and wondered what’s going on up there. It’s a question we have heard a lot, echoing our concerns about what these chemicals are and whether they are dangerous. This isn’t just idle curiosity; it’s a matter of real importance for our state and the health of our citizens.

Responding to these public concerns, Senator Tammy Nichols and Representative Tony Wisniewski introduced Senate Bill 1269, also known as the Cloud Seeding Transparency bill. This legislation aims to bring clarity to weather modification activities in Idaho. We are excited to share that S1269 has successfully passed the Senate and is now headed to the House for consideration, marking a significant step toward greater transparency.

Understanding Cloud Seeding: The Basics

Before we dive into the legislation, let’s clarify what we’re talking about. Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique that distributes chemical particles—called nuclei—into clouds to encourage precipitation.

The process typically uses ground-based generators or aircraft to release materials like silver iodide into clouds. When conditions are right, these particles provide a surface for water vapor to condense around, forming ice crystals or water droplets that eventually fall as precipitation.

Idaho has been experimenting with cloud seeding since the 1950’s, primarily to augment snowpack in mountain ranges. More snowpack means more water flowing into rivers and reservoirs during spring runoff—critical for agriculture, municipal water supplies, recreation, and ecosystems. Like you, we have some questions:

• What are in the chemical sprays?

• Is cloud-seeding effective? Do any risks outweigh the claimed benefits?

• Is cloud-seeding dangerous for humans, animal, and plant life?

What Senate Bill 1269 Changes

If passed, the new legislation would go into effect July 1, 2026, and brings significant updates to how Idaho manages cloud seeding operations. Here’s what’s different:

Clearer Definitions and Structure

The bill reorganizes Idaho’s cloud seeding framework into distinct sections with precise definitions. Terms like “operational period” (typically October 1 through April 30) and “methods used for cloud seeding” now have official meanings. This clarity helps everyone—from operators to stakeholders—understand exactly what’s being regulated.

Enhanced Transparency Requirements

Transparency is at the heart of this legislation. The Idaho Water Resource Board must now:

• Hold public meetings with opportunities for written and oral comments when discussing cloud seeding programs

• Publish annual reports detailing operational data, environmental impacts, public feedback, and effectiveness outcomes

• Make information accessible to citizens who want to understand what’s happening in their watersheds

Additionally, cloud seeding operators must submit monthly reports during the operational period. These reports include specific details: generator locations, flight paths, types and amounts of seeding materials used, suspension periods, and methods of operation.

This level of documentation creates accountability and allows for meaningful evaluation of the program’s effectiveness.

Authorization and Compliance Framework

The new law establishes clear authorization requirements. Any individual, organization, or entity conducting cloud seeding operations in Idaho must obtain approval from the Water Resource Board and adhere to specified conditions.

Failure to comply with reporting or disclosure requirements results in suspension of authorization until compliance is achieved. This provision ensures operators take their obligations seriously.

Focused Use of State Funds

State funds can only be used for cloud seeding in basins where existing water supplies are insufficient to support water rights, water quality, recreation, or fish and wildlife uses. This targeted approach ensures taxpayer dollars address genuine water scarcity issues rather than funding projects in areas with adequate supplies.

Liability Protections with Accountability

The legislation provides liability protections for authorized cloud seeding activities. Cloud seeding won’t be the basis for claims of trespass or nuisance, and it won’t require state or local permits.

However—and this is important—these protections don’t apply in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. Operators must still exercise reasonable care and follow approved protocols.

Idaho Freedom Caucus is proud to see the research and collaboration that has gone into this important bill come to fruition. The people of Idaho need transparency when it comes to what is being sprayed in our skies. Thank you, Senator Nichols and Representative Wisniewski!

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The 2026 Legislative session is officially underway, and our Idaho Freedom Caucus is moving full speed ahead, fighting for every Idahoan.

Being the voice for those who value freedom and love liberties keeps us busy trying to hone and sharpen legislation to make positive impacts. We are on target with legislation that aligns closely with our shared vision and mission.

This session you will see proposed legislation ranging from immigration, child custody reform, medical freedom, elections, programmable money, to DOGE bills and lots more! A major focus will also be on reducing the budget and the bureaucracy. This is the first year in over a decade that we have a large number of solid conservatives on the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC) and we are expecting big changes!

You may not know that working behind the scenes of our Caucus is the Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC. This PAC is working to champion the vision of our team members and supporting our re-election. Together, we are working to safeguard liberty and ensure that government serves the people, not the other way around.

To further our mission, we’re excited to announce a new addition to our PAC team. We now have an Operations Manager to work alongside Chairman Ed Humphreys as we grow the PAC’s impact and influence across the Gem State. Please join us in welcoming Katie Thompson!

A message from Katie:

“I am excited and honored to join the Idaho Freedom Caucus PAC and help advance the fight for liberty in this beautiful state. After leaving (escaping!) Washington in 2024, my husband and I found a home in Idaho, drawn to its beauty, safety, and freedom. We had fought for Washington for over 12 years, but finally realized we needed to get out. While the challenges here are different from what we faced in Washington, the fight for freedom is just as critical.

My goal is to connect with both lifelong Idahoans and newcomers who share a passion for liberty. Having personally experienced what it means to leave everything behind for the sake of living in a free and sane state, I’m inspired to support our principled legislators who are fighting every day to protect each one of us. I look forward to meeting you as we stand together to keep Idaho free!”

Your support is what makes all this possible. Stay tuned for updates, events, and insights as the IFC PAC continues to support efforts to fight for freedom in Idaho.

Thank you for standing with us as we work together toward a stronger more free future for the Gem State!

The Idaho Freedom Caucus