Idaho Democratic leader resigns from Legislature, joins Boise Chamber of Commerce

Idaho House Minority Leader Mat Erpelding announced he is resigning from his legislative seat effective Friday, Dec. 6.

In a resignation letter sent Wednesday to Gov. Brad Little and House Majority Leader Scott Bedke, the Boise Democrat stated that as he and his wife “plan for our family’s future, it is clear that I need to advance my professional career.”

“I am excited to join the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce where I will continue advocating for Idaho’s core economic needs,” Erpelding wrote.

Erpelding began serving in the Idaho Legislature in 2012 representing Boise’s North End District 19. He was selected House assistant minority leader in 2015 and elevated to House minority leader in 2017.

In addition to his House leadership role, Erpelding serves on the House Agricultural Affairs, Resources and Conservation, Revenue and Taxation, and Ways and Means committees.

Known for his quick wit and sharp barbs, Erpelding often stood up to House Republicans while defending his party’s platform or debating legislation.

“During my legislative career, I forged unexpected and lifelong friendships with many of you, even as we debated deeply divisive and challenging issues,” Erpelding wrote. “I firmly believe the Legislature is an ‘arena of ideas’ presented by leaders with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs. And, that is what makes our system of government so unique and incredible.”

Erpelding stated Idaho is better represented when legislators collaborate and compromise.

“Unfortunately, Idaho’s political polarization is deeply disconcerting,” he said. “I encourage my legislative colleagues to increase bipartisan efforts rather than kowtow to the extreme views being advocated on both ends of the spectrum.”

House Speaker Scott Bedke, R-Oakley, issued a statement on Erpelding’s departure.

“While I am personally happy that he has been afforded this new opportunity, I am also sorry he is leaving the House of Representatives,” Bedke stated. “In his position as Minority Leader, he has proven to be an insightful and collaborative legislator. We will miss him, but we wish him every success in his new position.”

In his new position at Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce, Erpelding will lead the Chamber’s advocacy efforts as vice president of government and community relations, according to a news release from the Chamber.

“Representative Erpelding is one of the most respected lawmakers in the Idaho Legislature, and we are extremely excited to announce such a monumental hiring,” said Chamber President and CEO Bill Connors.

Erpelding will begin at the Chamber in early December, and current Senior Vice President of Government Relations Ray Stark will continue on in his role to help with the transition.

“While no one will ever be able to replace the iconic career of Ray Stark, Erpelding will help the Boise Metro Chamber chart an exciting new course for its local, state and national agenda. He created a legacy of working with both sides of the aisle, and listening to multiple voices during his political career, we trust he’ll create that same legacy at our organization.”

Stark will continue working at the Chamber part time for the next six months to assist with the transition.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Erpelding’s term ends in January 2021.

Once his resignation is effective, the District 19 Democratic Central Committee has 15 days to name three possible replacements. That list will go to Gov. Brad Little, who then has 15 days to choose a replacement, according to state law.

The District 19 Democratic Legislative Committee will begin accepting applications to fill House Seat A immediately. Prospective applicants must submit a resume and letter of intent via an online application. Applications are due by Dec. 11. The legislative district committee will review completed applications and hold in-person interviews beginning Dec. 14. A final list of three names will be submitted to Gov. Little no later than Dec. 21.

The replacement will serve in the next legislative session, which begins Jan. 6.

All 105 Idaho legislative seats are up for election in 2020, so District 19 residents will select a new House seat A representative in the November general election.

House Assistant Minority Leader Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, announced Wednesday that she will run for Erpelding’s leadership position. The House Democratic caucus will select its new leaders Dec. 10.

“Representative Erpelding will be deeply missed in the Statehouse, and his absence will be felt throughout Idaho,” Rubel said in a statement. “It was an honor to serve with him. Representative Erpelding was a champion of progressive values, and much of his work will continue to touch the lives of Idahoans for generations.”

Rubel continued, “With my experience in Democratic leadership, I bring an important strategic perspective to the table that will be necessary to preserve Idaho values during the upcoming legislative session. I look forward to working with the Majority, and hope we can find bipartisan solutions to better the lives of Idahoans.”

Rep. Melissa Wintrow, D-Boise, announced she is seeking Rubel’s assistant minority leader seat.

“During my time in the Legislature, I have watched Representative Erpelding lead our caucus through some of the state’s most challenging times,” Wintrow said in a statement. “Unfortunately, there are many tough fights ahead as we fight to preserve our rights and values. Mat has left some of the biggest shoes for anyone to fill, but I will do my best to honor his legacy and continue to work hard for our district and state.”

This story was originally published December 4, 2019 at 7:30 AM.