A far-right California transplant tried to intimidate me into silence. I won’t back down | Opinion

Imagine being a seventh-generation Idahoan who’s grown a multi-generational farm business and provided years of service to our state and agriculture industry, only to have your livelihood attacked by a recent transplant from San Francisco — someone working remotely for an insurance company who thinks he knows Idaho values and the ag business better than you do.

In Idaho, we’ve long prided ourselves on principles of common decency and pragmatic dialogue. But these values are increasingly under threat. Where we once respectfully listened to one another and shared differing views to explore complex issues, we now face a troubling trend: Those who speak up with concerns that challenge certain views are quickly labeled as non-conservative and targeted for harassment.

As a state representative, I’ve experienced this firsthand. For honestly discussing real issues relating to immigration policy — recognizing both the need for border security and the reality that critical aspects of our economy depend on foreign workers — I’ve become the target of intimidation tactics designed to silence me.

Let me be clear: My family’s business complies with all applicable laws regarding employment and immigration. We welcome improvements to the laws and enforcement. Like all agricultural operations in Idaho, we use legal pathways to maintain our workforce. But acknowledging reality — that many of Idaho’s core industries like ag, construction and hospitality rely on these workers — has made me a target.

These attacks aren’t just about me. They represent a dangerous shift in our political discourse. When elected officials can be bullied into silence because of false statements and threats to their livelihoods and safety, we all lose. Every Idahoan deserves representation that speaks honestly about complex issues, not officials who stay quiet out of fear.

What makes Idaho special? We solve problems together. We have frank, difficult conversations without belittling or spreading lies about one another. We prioritize human dignity above fear and narrow self-interest. These values have sustained us through generations of challenges.

As I’ve often said about the statehouse, “The only currency you have in this building is your integrity.” Despite facing weaponized intimidation, I will not back down. I will continue standing up for all Idahoans, our way of life and our economy.

This is a rallying cry. I’m asking you to join me in supporting collaboration over divisiveness. Idaho’s agricultural industry has been the backbone of our state since before we achieved statehood. The farmers, ranchers and producers who feed Idaho and the world deserve thoughtful policy discussions, not political theater.

Immigration is undeniably complex, touching everything from national security to labor markets across multiple industries that power our state. But using this issue to bully individuals and businesses trying to navigate challenging documentation laws is reprehensible and counter to our Idaho values.

The overwhelming support I’ve received from fellow Idahoans across our beautiful state reaffirms that the majority of us value open dialogue, mutual respect and genuine representation over divisive political maneuvers.

Together, our voices can ensure that the Idaho way — promoting fairness, business and goodwill — prevails against those who would rather intimidate than collaborate.

Stand with me and others who are dedicated to finding solutions instead of dictating what your values should be and weaponizing outrage when you don’t give in. Idaho’s future depends on it.