(Idaho Gang of Eight Press Release, March 30, 2026)
Twin Falls, Idaho — Idaho State Senator Glenneda Zuiderveld says her family is paying a direct price for her strong legislative stand on illegal immigration after three Magic Valley dairies dropped her husband’s accounts.
Three dairies — Millekamp Cattle, Black Pine Cattle, and Cedar Ridge Dairy — refused to continue working with Tom Zuiderveld because of his wife’s “political role,” according to a letter sent by his employer last week. The letter explicitly stated the decision was “not related to the level of service” Tom provided. It further revealed that the three dairies “have aligned with others in a coordinated effort to no longer direct business” through Tom and warned that more customers may issue similar demands. The accounts were reassigned immediately, and Tom was instructed not to contact those customers again.
“This is political retaliation,” said Senator Zuiderveld. “This isn’t about poor service or performance. It is because I have stood firm on illegal immigration, an issue that matters deeply to Idaho families and our rule of law.”
Senator Zuiderveld has consistently championed legislation requiring employers to verify legal work status and strengthening immigration enforcement in Idaho. Her tough stance has created clear tensions with segments of the dairy industry. Industry representatives have testified that they rely heavily on foreign labor and have opposed stricter enforcement measures. The Idaho Dairymen’s Association has contributed to her political challengers in past cycles, and this year, the pro-amnesty Idaho Dairy Industry PAC donated the maximum allowable amount to her primary challenger.
Before deciding to run for office, the Zuiderveld family spent a full year weighing the potential costs to their livelihood in the industry. Tom has worked in the dairy sector as a sales representative since 2005, building on his earlier experience as a hoof trimmer dating back to the 1990s.
“Tom and I knew there could be a price for standing on principle,” said Senator Zuiderveld. “We pledge our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor, just as our Founding Fathers did. We will not bow to fear or economic pressure. Freedom is worth sacrificing for.”
The family says they will continue their public service without changing their positions in response to this pressure.
