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Guest Column – Christy Zito: A Republic or A Direct Democracy

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 22, 2024

A Republic or A Direct Democracy
“What we have given you, Madam, is a republic if you can keep it.”

Christy Zito (photo credit: Christy Zito)

by:  Christy Zito, Candidate for Idaho Senate, District 8

Benjamin Franklin famously said, “A republic, if you can keep it,” in response to Elizabeth Powell’s question on whether we have a republic or a monarchy.

This is one clear example of our founding fathers’ intent on how our government is intended to function.

However, over the generations, we have moved farther away from a republican government and are headed toward a direct democracy.

Direct democracy is mob rule, where the majority’s interests are considered more important than the individual’s rights.  Our constitution and justice system were designed to protect the individual’s rights.  This shift leaves those in the minority and the individual defenseless.

As a republic, we have elected officials chosen by the majority to represent us in law-making and governing.

In direct Democracy, if Jane has a new car but everyone in the neighborhood wants her car, the majority takes the car from Jane, leaving her defenseless.

Direct Democracy is working hard in Idaho, as it is in Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and California.

The ballot initiative process is direct democracy.

Radical Democrats and the democrat-voting Republicans, just like in states that have been turned blue, are using the initiative process to weaponize Idaho laws to make it look like California and Washington.

In 2018, an initiative petition was passed calling on the legislature to expand Medicaid.  The rhetoric at the time was that expanding government-funded and controlled health care would give Idaho’s hard-working men and women better and cheaper medical insurance and care.

Not only were the estimates of what this would cost the state wrong, but counting on the federal government to fund part of it creates more problems in this case. This comes with strings attached, stripping the citizens of their sovereignty and independence and tying us to a federal mandate.

Those who pushed for this initiative told us that Medicaid expansion would save Idaho an estimated $15 million annually.

Fact: expansion has cost Idaho more than double what was projected and is draining the state budget to unsustainable levels, taking away money from roads and schools.

Another initiative petition is currently in the works and will likely be on the November ballot called “top-four primary and ranked-choice voting”; a more accurate name is Rigged Choice Voting.

This is the link to an excellent short video explanation of how RCV works or does not work…

With the passage of Ranked Choice Voting, Idaho will become a bright “Blue” state with a radical democrat agenda. Say goodbye to your gun rights and property rights, and watch us become a Sanctuary state for illegals.

Rigged Choice Voting (RCV) is such a bad idea that Alaska is trying to repeal it. RCV causes voter confusion, lower voter turnout, and increased ballot spoilage, causing “your vote not counted and thrown out.”

I am proud to stand firm on being pro-life; I know that life begins at conception and that we are all created in God’s image.

I don’t just say these words; I bring action to them. During my time in the state house, I voted for and sponsored legislation to protect the unborn and make abortion illegal in Idaho.

Direct Democracy in Idaho is now working to overturn the will of the people’s representatives in the abortion area.

Those who are determined to take over our republic are planning to put abortion on the ballot in 2026 and plan to get the support from left-of-center “Republicans” to do so.  The left will do anything to end the lives of our unborn children on demand.

We are witnessing the Gem State Heist, just like the one that made Colorado go from Conservative to Radically Liberal.

Our guns will be next; Colorado just passed an “Assault Weapons” ban last week, which bans 80 to 90% of semi-auto firearms.

WE WILL BE NEXT.  We must stop this madness now.

We must say NO to these radical initiatives that are not a function of a Republic.

Idahoans must elect strong Conservatives, men and women, who will have the guts to reject these radical initiatives when they reach the statehouse.

We need strong representation in our state government who can resist pressure and be independent.

Over the years, many of us, including the Idaho Second Amendment Alliance (ISAA), have been sounding the alarm about the initiative process and its threat to our constitutionally guaranteed rights.

We will win this fight and shoot these freedom-threatening initiatives down, but it starts with YOU.

Know who you are voting for on May 21.  Know what is at stake in Idaho.

Labrador Letter: SCOTUS Lifts Injunction in Vulnerable Child Protection Act Lawsuit

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 23, 2024

SCOTUS Lifts Injunction in Vulnerable Child Protection Act Lawsuit

by: Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador

Attorney General Raúl Labrador

Dear Friends,

Last Monday our office received an encouraging decision from the Supreme Court of the United States.  In February, my office filed an emergency application to SCOTUS asking them to lift the injunction on Idaho’s Vulnerable Child Protection Act, which prohibited hormone blockers and gender reassignment surgeries for minor children.  The injunction was placed by a lower court and then affirmed by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. In a 6-3 decision, SCOTUS granted our request to lift the broad injunction and allowed the law to proceed as passed as to all children in Idaho (except for the two plaintiffs) while the case is working its way through the court process.

With the injunction lifted, the law takes effect immediately protecting Idaho’s kids from experimental, unproven surgeries and drug treatments to block hormones and healthy human development.  Even though the case is still ongoing, SCOTUS reined in the lower court judge by holding that the original ruling overstepped acceptable boundaries.

Some in the medical community continue to expose vulnerable children to risky and dangerous medical procedures that have lifelong, irreversible consequences, while more and more minors continue to express their regret for taking this path. Just think – if a child had anorexia and believed they were overweight, any psychologist affirming their belief, calling them fat, and prescribing them diet pills and a gastric bypass, would lose their license.

A long-term study from the Netherlands released earlier this month confirmed the vast majority of children experiencing gender dysphoria grow out of it. The study followed 2700 kids from age 11 through their mid 20’s.  It found that by age 25 only 4% of the individuals in the study expressed continued gender dysphoria.  The study’s authors noted, “The fact that rates of gender [dis]satisfaction are lower even just a few years later suggests that for the vast majority of people, prudence and caution, rather than a rush towards permanent surgeries or hormone therapies, will be the best approach for teenagers struggling to make sense of the world and their place in it.”

Unfortunately, gender dysphoria diagnoses have skyrocketed in the United States. In 2017, there were 15,172 new diagnoses.  In 2021, there were 42,167.  That’s a 278% increase in just five years.  It seems more than reasonable to question why. Children don’t have the ability to consent to and discern long-term consequences for actions.  That’s why kids can’t buy liquor, guns, or cigarettes, sign contracts, vote, take out a loan, or get married.

But somehow, society has declared that it is reasonable for kids to be prescribed hormone blockers and get surgeries to change their genders, often after just a single medical consultation.  Accommodating doctors and parents continue to rush to “affirm” whatever perception these vulnerable and confused kids have about themselves, instead of counseling or working to improve their overall mental health.  Studies are showing that many underlying mental health conditions like depression and anxiety simply don’t improve with “gender affirming care” and remain stubbornly present even with surgeries and hormonal treatments.

I will always fight to protect our vulnerable kids.  Children suffering from gender dysphoria need love and support, not to be pushed into experimental surgeries and drugs that can cause irreparable, irreversible harm. In our hurry to appear compassionate and accepting, many have ignored the greatest parental obligation of all – to guide and love our children just the way they are – so when they are adults, they can make good choices.Best regards,

Bannock County Solar Ordinance Update

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 24, 2024 (Bannock County News Release, April 22, 2024; Photo credit: Bannock County)

Bannock County–In March, the [Bannock County] Board [of Commissioners] decided to create an ordinance banning large-scale solar and wind projects in Bannock County. A public hearing for this ordinance was held on March 26th at the courthouse, where 18 people spoke in favor of a total ban, and 28 spoke against it.

Commissioners Moser and Crowder voted in favor of the ban, while Commissioner Hough voted against it. However, the Board’s discussion about the vote left the door open to revisit the ordinance and find a middle ground.

“We put this ordinance in because we’re at a deadline, and then we can adjust (the) ordinance.” – Chairman Ernie Moser

“I don’t think we’re in a position to do anything other than put in a ban, and then you can have all the discussions you want going forward.” – Commissioner John Crowder.

“If we allow the government to deny the opportunity for individuals to explore options, where does the insidious creep of government power stop?” – Commissioner Jeff Hough.

Sheriff’s Office Reminds Outdoor Enthusiasts to Lock Car Doors at Trailheads

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 24, 2024 (Bannock County Press Release, April 23, 2024)

BANNOCK COUNTY, Idaho – As Idahoans begin to hit the trails again, prowlers are taking advantage of unlocked vehicles.

The Bannock County Sheriff’s Office is receiving increasing reports of burglaries in unlocked vehicles at trailheads. There are even reports of stolen cars with keys left inside or hidden around the vehicle.

“We live in a great area for outdoor recreation, but even in our small community, it’s important to be diligent about locking your doors. Thieves know where to check for hidden keys, so we recommend locking your vehicle and bringing the keys with you,” said Sgt. Justin Cannon.

Cannon also recommends not leaving valuables, such as guns, purses, electronics, or garage door openers, in plain view. If someone sees it and wants it, they’ll find a way to get it.

“This goes for all trailheads, all the time. It’s not just a Bannock County problem; this kind of thing happens everywhere, so it’s important to stay diligent and make a habit of locking up your stuff,” Cannon said.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating the reported burglaries. Anyone with information about a vehicle burglary should call the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office at 208-236-7111.

AG’s Office to Defend Idaho’s ‘Defense of Life’ Act Before SCOTUS Tomorrow Morning

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 23, 2024

Washington–The Idaho Attorney General’s Office will appear tomorrow morning before the U.S. Supreme Court to present oral arguments in defense of the state’s Defense of Life Act.  The AG’s Office released the following statement this morning about the case:

The Office of the Idaho Attorney General, with the assistance of experienced Supreme Court litigators from ADF and Cooper & Kirk PLLC, is asking the nation’s high court to prevent the Biden administration from manipulating federal law to override Idaho’s Defense of Life Act. Idaho’s law protects the lives of women and their unborn children, preventing doctors from performing abortions unless necessary to save the life of the mother or in cases of rape or incest. Contrary to what the administration argues, Idaho’s law is fully consistent with federal law.

“The administration’s radical interpretation of federal law is nothing more than a lawless disregard for Idaho’s right to protect life,” Labrador said. “Idaho’s Defense of Life Act is perfectly consistent with the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, which provides explicit protections for ‘unborn children’ in four separate places. But the Biden administration is trying to use one life-affirming law to invalidate another. We are asking the Supreme Court to end the administration’s unlawful overreach and to respect the decision of the people of Idaho to safeguard the lives of women and their unborn children.”

In August 2022, the Biden administration sued Idaho, claiming that EMTALA preempts Idaho’s protections for life and requires emergency room doctors to perform abortions that are unlawful in Idaho. But no conflict exists between EMTALA and Idaho’s law, as both seek to save lives, and neither force doctors to perform abortions in emergency rooms. After a lower court upheld the administration’s attempt to rewrite EMTALA and prevented Idaho from enforcing its law, the Supreme Court agreed to review the case and fully restored Idaho’s law while the case continues.

P.A.G.E.: Deputy Public Works Director Discusses Pocatello Roads

By
Karyn Simmons
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0
Pocatello for Accountable Government Entities: Keeping Government Accountable

April 23, 2024 (Pocatello for Accountable Government Entities, April 21, 2024)

During the 4/18/2024 City Council meeting, in response to questions raised by Councilman Cheatum, the Deputy Public Works Director gave an overview of road management. He also provided an explanation regarding the poor condition of Pocatello Creek Road, particularly near the I-15 on and off ramps. Finally, in response to a question from Mayor Blad, he discussed the city’s overall street condition.

If road conditions interest you, we highly recommend you watch the video from this meeting starting at the below time-stamp specific link for about 10 1/4 minutes.

START: 32:42

END: 43:05

Gov. Little Comments on Idaho’s Strengthening Economy

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 23, 2024 (Governor Little’s Office Press Release, April 19, 2024)

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho Department of Labor announced today that Idaho led the nation in year-over-year nonfarm job growth for the month of March and that Idaho’s labor force continues to grow.

Idaho also came in second place for best economic outlook and best economic performance, rivaling states like Utah and Florida, in the latest Rich States, Poor States rankings.

In addition, Idaho ranks second for fiscal stability, second for best economy, and third for best state overall in recent rankings from USNews.com.

Idaho also was called out in an opinion on Governing.com titled, “The States Where Pro-Growth Policies Rule,” noting:

“State policy matters for economic growth: The latest census data documents that millions of Americans are voting with their feet by moving to states that offer more freedom and greater opportunity. With that in mind, the top five states in economic outlook for 2023 may not come as a surprise: Utah, Idaho, Arizona, North Carolina and Indiana.

“Across Utah’s northern border, Idaho ranks second in the nation for economic outlook. The Gem State joined the 2022 Flat Tax Revolution, condensing both personal and business income tax brackets into a flat 5.8 percent rate. Idaho also boasts a right-to-work law, no death taxes and relatively low property tax burdens.”

Governor Brad Little issued the following statement on Idaho’s strengthening economy:

“Not surprisingly, year after year Idaho surges ahead of the competition in job growth, household income growth, economic outlook, economic performance, and fiscal responsibility. Why? Because we have championed unprecedented tax relief while making historic strategic investments in schools, roads, water, workforce, outdoor recreation, and other infrastructure to keep up with record growth. Our businesses and communities are made up of good people who support one another. What Idaho is doing is WORKING!”

Bannock County Announce ARPA Fund Allocations

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 23, 2024 (Bannock County Newsletter, April 22, 2024)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government gave local governments a lot of money with the intent that the funds would help America recover from its impacts.

These funds come from the American Rescue Plan Act (a.k.a “ARPA”) of 2021 and are technically called “State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.

Bannock County received $17 million ($17,055,676 to be exact) in ARPA funds based on our county population.

The Board of Commissioners recently held a meeting to decide which projects to fund with ARPA dollars, which you can watch here (discussion begins at 15:23).

Here’s a look at how the money has been spent so far, and what is up for debate for the remaining funds.

What projects have been approved?

Here are the projects that have been approved to use ARPA funds, in order from most to least expensive. These amounts are estimates until a true cost is finalized.

  • Building maintenance, security, landscaping, and other upgrades (including a remodel for the house Search & Rescue and SWAT team building) at the Detention Center & Sheriff’s Office – $2,362,825
  • Construct two barns, an office, a meeting room, and an exhibit building and tear down old buildings at Bannock County Fairgrounds – $1,600,000
  • Constructing a building for the Youth Development Center and Event Center office – $1,544,519
  • Upgrade 911 Microwave Towers – $900,000
  • Assessor’s Office building repairs (to include expanding the DMV counter) – $750,000
  • Reconstructing 6th Street and entrances to the courthouse and elections office – $750,000
  • Two dump trucks and blades for plowing – $710,000
  • Replacing the roof of the Road & Bridge building – $500,000
  • Upgrading and installing security cameras at county facilities and the Event Center – $400,000
  • Upgrades and repairs for the Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building – $388,175
  • Two boiler replacements for the courthouse – $350,000
  • Paying off enterprise leases for county vehicles – $279,000
  • Remodel and upgrades for the Bannock County Historical Museum – $165,000
  • Remodel for the Ag Extension building – $50,000
  • Grandstands seating upgrade for the Event Center – $50,000
  • Water truck for the race track and arena at the Event Center – $44,000
  • Installing ADA doors for elections office – $25,000
  • Flag pole for the Event Center – $10,000

What projects have been completed?

Here are the projects that have been completed with ARPA funds, in order from most to least expensive.

  • Cash flow for the first event season at Event Center – $2,000,000
  • Sewer upgrade at the Portneuf Wellness Complex – $1,502,000
  • Ambulance bay at McCammon Fire Station – $1,000,000
  • Detention Center roof replacement – $949,750
  • “The Village” Safe Teen Assessment Center – $402,409
  • Building cost estimates for forensic pathology center – $110,696
  • ePoll books purchase for elections – $58,650
  • Truck purchase for Public Works – $54,060
  • Router upgrade for IT – $52,592
  • Tractor purchase for grooming at Event Center – $25,000
  • Installing ADA doors at Detention Center – $21,920

Bannock County Board of Commissioners Meetings, April 22-26, 2024

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 22, 2024 (Bannock County Press Release; Photo Credit: Bannock County)

Monday, April 22, 2024:

  • There are no meetings scheduled at this time.

Tuesday, April 23, 2024:

Wednesday, April 24, 2024:

  • There are no meetings scheduled at this time.

Thursday, April 25, 2024:

  • 9:00 AM: Claims Meeting (action item)
  • Work Session (potential action items) NOTE: The agenda for the Work Session will be updated on Monday, April 22, 2024.
  • 10:00 AM: Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Preparation Meeting (potential action item)

Friday, April 26, 2024:

  • There are no meetings scheduled at this time.

More about BOCC Meetings

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is comprised of the three elected County Commissioners: Ernie Moser (District 1, Chair), Jeff Hough (District 2), and John Crowder (District 3).

The BOCC generally meets twice a week: regular business meetings are on Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. and work sessions are on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. Meetings are generally held in the Commissioner’s Chambers at 624 E Center, Room 212, Pocatello, Idaho, unless otherwise noted. Times subject to change within 15 minutes of stated time.

During these meetings, the BOCC may: approve contracts, expend funds, hear testimony, make decisions on land use cases and take care of other County matters, and are open to the public.

Statement from AG Labrador on Ada County Deputy Sheriff Tobin Bolter

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 22, 2024 (Attorney General’s Office Press Release, April 21, 2024)

Ada County–Our hearts are broken for Deputy Bolter, his family, and his colleagues at the Ada County Sheriff’s Office and the Meridian Police Department.  Every day, brave men and women put on the badge and uniform and step into the streets to keep us safe, willing to lay down their lives.  Deputy Tobin gave every last full measure in the protection of his community. We cannot adequately express both the sorrow and the gratitude for Deputy Tobin’s sacrifice, and for law enforcement in our communities who now grieve this terrible loss.

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The Pocatello Chubbuck Observer seeks to be a fair and objective portal, where readers can find the local, regional and national news, recent facts and entertainment.
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