May Primaries This Tuesday: Get to Know Our Local Candidates!

BY LINDA COPPESS

The Idaho primary election is this Tuesday, May 21, and your vote has never been more important! A few weeks ago I wrote in my article that because Idaho is predominantly a Republican state, primary winners almost always secure a victory in the general election. It’s crucial for our community to vote in this primary, as the ones elected into these offices have the power to make decisions that will shape local policies, advocate for business interests, and contribute to community development and quality of life.  

To help assist in your preparation to vote, the Joint Public Policy Committee of the following Chambers of Commerce, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, Post Falls and Rathdrum, in partnership with the Coeur d’Alene Press, are proud to present candidate forums featuring one-on-one interviews with local candidates running for the following contested Republican races:

Kootenai County Commissioners Seat 1

  • Bat Masterson
  • Dale Gibboney
  • John Padula
  • Marc Eberlein

Kootenai County Commissioners Seat 3

  • Brett Surplus
  • Leslie Duncan, Incumbent

Kootenai County Sheriff

  • Bob Norris, Incumbent
  • Mike Bauer

Idaho State House of Representatives District 4, Seat B

  • Dave Raglin
  • Elaine Price, Incumbent

Idaho State Senate – District 5

  • Carl Bjerke, Incumbent
  • Cheri Zao

Our goal was to provide candidates a platform to reach out to their constituents virtually and without polictcal bias. This format showcases individual conversations between our business leaders and moderators, Tyrel Stevenson, and Helo Hancock, and each of the candidates. It gives you, the voter, the opportunity to hear directly from those running for office at your convenience.

Before you head to the ballot, we urge you to get informed on the candidates and their positions on important issues impacting our community. The forums are posted on the Coeur d’Alene Press website, under the Meet the Candidates tab at the top of the page. 

Most importantly, don’t forget the important Precinct Committeemen races! Please do your part to become an informed voter for the primary election being held this Tuesday, May 21. The future of our community depends on it.

At the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber, our mission is our members. We invite you to join us at the upcoming events, and to become a part of extraordinary journey towards visionary leadership for our businesses and community.

 

UPBEAT BREAKFAST  – Tuesday, June 11, 2024 

 

The Coeur d’Alene Resort 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM

 

This event provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow residents, local leaders, and businesses as we collectively envision a strong future and contribute to the growth and prosperity of Coeur d’Alene.

Register here (https://bit.ly/4bd28Ne ). 

 

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS – Thursday, June 27, 2024

 

Fatbeam 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM 

 

This free networking event provides an opportunity for members to showcase their business and make connections. Appetizers, beverages, and prizes are provided by the sponsor business.

Register here (https://bit.ly/3ygexBF ).