Idaho Gubernatorial Election: Bundy Defeat

In response to Idaho Governor Brad Little’s victory over anti-democracy leader Ammon Bundy, Western States Strategies’ Deputy Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives Amy Herzfeld-Copple issued the following statement:

“In a week when so many states were considering whether to elect leaders who have taken positions aggressively undermining democratic institutions, it’s heartening to see Idaho voters decisively reject Ammon Bundy’s attempt to build power for his anti-democracy aims. Idahoans continue to make clear that Bundy’s and his supporters’ harassment and intimidation of communities and civic institutions have no place in the Gem State. During the primary and again last night, Idaho voters refused to accept candidates with white nationalist and paramilitary ties, who threaten violence or embrace conspiracy theories about elections, vaccines, and LGBTQ+ people.

“That kind of decisive defeat of extremism doesn’t just happen. In Idaho, business leaders, law enforcement, ranchers, religious figures and ordinary individuals from across the political spectrum made an explicit and intentional effort to stop candidates who traffic in bigotry and political violence. They made clear that instead of dismissing dangerous rhetoric and extremist actors, they would stand up for Idaho values. It worked. This effort is a model for defending democracy that other states can learn from.”

Western States Strategies primarily focuses on strengthening inclusive democracy through nonpartisan education and advocacy. It is affiliated with Western States Center which works nationwide to build a future where all people can live, love, worship, and work free from bigotry and fear.