DISTRICT 9
Worthley will bring change
Steve Worthley, candidate for state representative in District 9, is not a politician, but is an experienced educator who will work for the best education for your children and grandchildren. His opponent is a longtime politician who voted to increase the sales tax, take away local school district funding and to lower the income taxes of the big corporations.
It’s time for a change!
WAYNE FULLER, Weiser
DISTRICT 10
Hixon will be strong asset
I fully endorse Brandon Hixon to fill District 10, House Seat A. Brandon is a great team leader, has proven loyalty and loves this great state. He has earned awards for his dedication, service and interest in the future of Idaho. He is conservative; however, can think outside the box, and is not a yes man. He is competent and has gained solid knowledge on all of the critical issues we are faced with today. He is unwavering in his convictions, and succeeds even in the face of adversity. Brandon will be a strong, significant asset to the Legislature. It’s time for us Idahoans to do our part and work on creating a better tomorrow for Idaho, by voting for Hixon on Nov. 6.
REBECCA DRNJEVIC, Kuna
DISTRICT 13
Trehal genuinely cares
I was very impressed that Clayton Trehal took the time to get to know me and my views on various topics. I can’t remember any other candidate ever doing this. This shows me that he genuinely cares about me and my opinions. Well done, Mr. Trehal. You have my vote.
DEANNA DODDS, Nampa
DISTRICT 16
Elect the Republican team
For several sessions, the District 16 representatives have been liberal-leaning and in favor of larger government and dependency. I don’t believe this best represents me or this district. We can change that on Nov. 6 by electing a conservative team.
Joan Cloonan is running for the Senate. She has a wealth of experience in the public and private sectors, and is very capable of working with both sides to promote common-sense solutions.
Lee-Mark Ruff is a young man with experience in the workings of government, and a keen interest in education reform and job creation. He is seeking House Seat A.
Graham Paterson, who is running for House Seat B, has worked with neighborhood associations and the federal delegation. He knows the burden of unnecessary regulations and excess taxes on businesses and individuals.
I am personal friends with these candidates and know they will work to ensure sensible, conservative solutions. We are fortunate to have a Legislature that balances the budget and still promotes the best opportunities for Idaho citizens. This team will represent me, my district, and my philosophy in the Legislature. If you agree that District 16 needs better representation, please vote for this Republican team Nov. 6.
JACQUI SHURTLEFF, Boise
DISTRICT 17
The Senate is Werk’s job
Unbelievable that a campaign worker would write a letter dissing Elliot Werk for not having a job or running a business. Mr. Werk has a full-time job working for the constituents of District 17. He won’t be and hasn’t been distracted by a real estate business or other entities that take up Ms. Peavey-Derr’s time. He has been totally involved with District 17 business. He is always there to answer questions and help out with any problems we have. As a resident of District 17, I have found that a full-time representative is much more desirable than a candidate who is most likely looking at this job as a stepping stone to something else. Elliot Werk is a person who has for 10 years worked on our issues and will continue to represent us in spite of interlopers who want to use us for their personal advancement.
BARBARA CARTER, Boise
Voss has it together
I was fortunate to have had a conversation with young Mr. Gus Voss, who is running for representative for District 17, about his history, motivation and dedication to becoming involved in politics as a politician. He has it together. At 22 years old, he’s already worked for a decade toward his goals. In public school he was a fine competitive debater, then he founded and presided over Democracy Matters at Boise State University where he graduated with a political science degree, I think he said. Now he’s running to be elected to represent the people in his community. Twenty-two years old, focused on putting himself in a position where he can make a difference for our sake, and one day for the sake of our country.
On election day let’s show our support and appreciation for this young man’s dedication by electing him as our representative in District 17. His politics are clearly defined and honest, and he deserves to have his voice heard.
DON TILTON, Boise
DISTRICT 20
Winder endorsement weak
I believe Chuck Winder’s position on abortion is wrong. Ultrasound; women can decide, not individuals like Winder.
I’m a Catholic and 83 years of age. I believe it’s a woman’s right to choose.
The Statesman’s rationalization about Mr. Winder’s ability to understand complex issues is not an argument.
Any well-informed person can understand what you call or suggest are difficult government issues.
EDWARD H. WHALEN, Meridian
DISTRICT 8
Cindy Phelps for House
With the expanse of the new legislative District 8 (from Salmon’s Lemhi County on the Montana border in the east to Emmett’s Gem County on the west), we are desperately in need of a dynamic, energetic, willing-to-travel representative. I highly recommend Cindy Phelps! She is willing to attack the issues at hand and bring new positive ideas and solutions to the floor. She is approachable, truthful, optimistic and well aware of the changes in our society that require new thinking.
The community of Salmon has seen Cindy Phelps’ many accomplishments, such as the expansion of the animal shelter and the purchase of a Main Street building which now houses a huge thrift store which supports the shelter. She is keenly aware of the need for education reforms, updated technology and dedicated teachers, but wants a new approach. She herself is highly educated and sees the big picture.
Let’s vote to let Cindy Phelps broaden her horizons and be of service to this extensive five-county district. Twenty unproductive years is way too long for a representative to serve. Let’s get behind Cindy Phelps for Seat B and enter a new era of productivity!
SARA L. JOHNSON, Salmon
VOTER ID
Ysursa’s pamphlet misleads voters
Registered Idaho voters are not required to present identification at the polls to vote. The law says, “The Voter may complete an affidavit in lieu of the personal identification.” The official Idaho Voters’ Pamphlet, however, blatantly misleads Idaho voters about this option — not once, not twice, but three times. The front cover states in bold letters: “Bring Your ID and VOTE!” (Not true.) and “Your quick guide to the law requiring voters to show ID.” (Not true.) The misinformation continues in the top right column, page 2, bold letters: “Photo ID is now required to vote in Idaho.” (Not true.) Then, finally, the pamphlet tells the truth (not in bold): “To vote, you must either present a photo ID or sign a personal identification affidavit.” My question: Why the blatant deceptions instead of a truthful “Vote! Bring ID or Sign Affidavit (available at polls).” Informing about ballot choices is good, but misinforming about voters’ rights is inexcusable. Ben Ysursa, secretary of state, gave final approval for the pamphlet. If you believe voters deserve the truth, call him at 334-2852 and demand complete, corrected information.
BARBARA KEMP, Boise
CONGRESS
Labrador battles for fiscal sanity
As a staunch member of the tea party I implore you to send Congressman Raul Labrador back to office for another two years. The congressman has tirelessly defended lower taxes, has fought to keep Obamacare out of our lives, and has battled to restore our country to fiscal sanity. I have worked closely with the congressman and he is a steadfast, hard-working, man of integrity. Please join me in voting for him on Nov. 6.
RUSS SMERZ, Star
Statesman selectionswere a mixed bag
The Statesman’s endorsement of Mike Simpson makes a lot of sense. During his whole career he has worked tirelessly to bring together divergent groups to solve real problems. He is showing strong leadership to drive to a realistic solution for the federal budget.
On the other hand, the endorsement of Raul Labrador I find quite troubling. He is an example of what is wrong with the Republican Party. A party that would rather take a dogmatic, obstructionist approach rather than doing the job of government.
Your own statement says it all about Raul.
“As far as that goes, he’s right. But Labrador’s unwillingness to consider a balanced approach to debt reduction — a combination of tough spending cuts and unpopular revenue increases — remains troubling. It may solidify Labrador’s standing among the House GOP’s tea party wing, but it just isn’t pragmatic.”
Your assessment is right, your endorsement is wrong.
STEVE SIMPSON, Boise
Farris isn’t ready
I watched the Idaho Public Television debate that aired last week. Although I was impressed by the tenacity and energy of Jimmy Farris, I was quickly reminded that there is no room for inexperience during such a time of financial crisis. Mr. Farris would be better served if he applied his aggressive debating style and bountiful energy in a run for a state representative seat or a city council post. If we elected Farris to represent Idaho’s 1st District, it would almost be the same as throwing him out there on the front lines of a foreign war without any significant training, preparation or weapons. Jimmy Farris may have experience on the NFL sidelines, but that does not qualify nor prepare him to be on the front lines of our government representing Idaho’s 1st District.
JON BASS, Boise
Labrador will fight liberal agenda
Rep. Raul Labrador, restoring sanity to Washington, D.C.
I have worked closely with Rep. Labrador and am asking you to help me keep him in office for another two years. Unlike his opponent the congressman has experience with the issues at hand and will fight the liberal Obama agenda every step of the way. With every vote he has made, Raul has stayed true to his conservative roots. He isn’t afraid to go against his own party when he thinks it is straying from the ideals that he holds so close to his heart.
We need less political rhetoric and more straight-talkers like the congressman. Raul doesn’t use the talking points of either party and is his own man that can always be counted on to represent Idaho’s 1st Congressional District proudly. I encourage you all to find your voice and join me in voting for Raul on Nov. 6.
LEIANN SNYDER, Nampa
ADA COUNTY
Twilegar puts his neck on the line
Freedom isn’t free.
Even dead fish heads stink after a week. Ron Twilegar understands that.
A quarter of a century for Ada County Prosecutor Greg Bower is far, far too much. Ron Twilegar cares.
Power: concentrated power tends to corrupt. Ron Twilegar puts his neck on the line.
Ron Twilegar carried state college Republican bills for a consolidated election plan. He works well with Eisenhower Republicans.
Turn Bow Wower out now and bring in a real Republican one term later.
GLENN MILES, Boise
ACHD
Arnold a dedicated, wise professional
I highly recommend Rebecca Arnold for re-election as an Ada County Highway District commissioner representing Subdistrict No. 2. I have known Ms. Arnold for over a dozen years, and have consistently found her to be a wise and dedicated professional, with the highest level of integrity. Her service on the ACHD board has been characterized by fiscal conservatism, fairness and thoughtful consideration of the issues facing Ada County and how the decisions and recommendations of ACHD affect individual residents. She has done a fantastic job and deserves re-election.
JAMES BURCH, Boise
Re-elect Arnold
It is a pleasure for our family to endorse Rebecca Arnold in her bid for reelection.
Rebecca’s extensive professional skills, historical knowledge of our community, and a desire to make a difference are values and skills seldom combined in one candidate. We are fortunate to have Rebecca Arnold running for a third term.
ROGER CANTLON AND FAMILY, Boise
Arnold is honest and straightforward
I highly recommend Rebecca Arnold for the ACHD seat. I have worked with Rebecca for several years and found her to be very honest and straightforward. She has the experience and expertise to perform her duties and obligations with the highest degree of professionalism.
KEN FRANKLIN, Meridian
Arnold advocates for the taxpayer
For the past eight years, Rebecca Arnold has served as an Ada County Highway District commissioner and is currently ACHD president.
Rebecca is a real estate lawyer, having practiced for six years at Givens Pursley, as well as nine years at Albertsons. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Rebecca was a certified public accountant and has in-depth experience in financial matters, such as creating and operating within budgets.
Rebecca has brought experience and common sense to ACHD that has allowed and caused ACHD to function more like a business, less like government. She has also been a strong advocate against raising taxes.
Rebecca and her fellow commissioners have declined the allowable tax increases provided under state law and have kept the amount of property taxes that goes to ACHD at the same level for the last four years in a row.
Rebecca is willing to give four more years of her life to making Ada County a better place in which to live and drive.
We don’t want to lose her in this office. Please vote, and encourage others to vote, for Rebecca Arnold on Nov. 6.
WINSTON MOORE, Meridian
Arnold a positive voice of experience
I am endorsing Rebecca Arnold for Ada County Highway District commissioner.
Rebecca is a positive voice of experience for the ACHD. She is one of Idaho’s more knowledgeable individuals with local transportation issues. I have had the pleasure of serving with Rebecca on the Idaho Association of Highway Districts executive board and other committees of highway and infrastructure concerns. Please vote to re-elect Commissioner Rebecca Arnold to the ACHD commission on Nov. 6.
DAVID LINCOLN, Parma
EAGLE CITY HALL
Owning City Hall will save tax dollars
By voting in favor of the Eagle City Hall bond on Nov. 6, we can own Eagle City Hall for less cost than leasing, with no property tax increase and provide greater benefits for Eagle’s future.
Ownership means less cost than leasing by eliminating full lease payments, insurance premiums and property taxes. The net savings equal about $145,000 per year and could be returned to taxpayers by lowering property taxes.
Ownership means no property tax increase. We spend up to $240,592 per year to lease Eagle City Hall. The bond payments to purchase the building would be half that much. It simply doesn’t make financial sense to lease the building when we can own it for less without raising property taxes.
Ownership means greater benefits for Eagle’s future.
Each household spends $32.94 per year to lease, operate and maintain Eagle City Hall. Ownership reduces this cost to $12.74 per year, a savings of $20.20 per year. In 15 years or less, the bond payments will cease and we will own Eagle City Hall. Other benefits exist.
Please vote “in favor of” Eagle City Hall ownership on Nov. 6.
JEFF KUNZ, Eagle
A win-win for all
On Nov. 6, the City of Eagle will ask voters for approval to issue bonds to fund the purchase of Eagle City Hall.
Unlike past bond elections in Eagle, this one is different in that no property tax increase has been proposed. Not only has Eagle’s past and present City Council staved off tax increases for the last number of years, they have also managed to set aside a substantial amount of money to contribute towards the purchase of the City Hall building.
The city owns the land the building stands on. The original lease/purchase agreement, offered by building owner Hawkins Smith in 2006, reflected market rates prevalent for the day. Resulting negotiations between the city and Hawkins Smith have reduced the purchase price of the building to today’s market standards. Financially, it makes better sense to buy the building as ownership will be less costly than continuing to lease.
Buying City Hall will save the city and its citizens hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.
Create a win-win for all. Please cast your vote in favor of purchasing Eagle City Hall.
JANE KRAMER, Eagle resident and former City Hall Task Force Committee member
CANYON COUNTY
Donahue is a clear choice for sheriff
As sheriff for the past eight years, and working in law enforcement since 1973, I know what it takes to be a successful administrator of an agency that employs over 300 members.
In the current race for sheriff, Robert Muse touts his education, but fails to mention he does not have Basic Peace Officer Certification.
The fact is, Muse’s only law enforcement experience was a short time as a jailer in Owyhee County.
To effectively lead a law enforcement agency of this size, the staff must have trust and confidence in your background and knowledge of the job. The members must have confidence to follow your lead.
An effective leader should be networked, and not alienated, with others in the criminal justice community.
Kieran Donahue holds an advanced police officer certificate. He has worked with, and has the respect of, all other law enforcement agencies in the Treasure Valley.
Donahue has established trusted relationships with most criminal justice professionals, not only in Idaho, but the surrounding states.
The choice is clear for Canyon County sheriff. Vote responsibly with sheriff’s office members.
I am voting Kieran Donahue for sheriff.
CHRIS SMITH, Canyon County sheriff, Caldwell
