The Idaho Playbook: A Beacon in the West
Idaho is known for our common sense, conservative policies that cut government red tape and protect American values. The Trump Administration is now taking note – and taking a page right out of our playbook.
Protecting Women’s Sports
Idaho was the first state in the nation to pass a law to ensure boys cannot compete in girls’ sports. This policy has gained national traction as the Trump Administration takes steps to uphold fairness and protect opportunities for female athletes with the signing of the Executive Order, “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports”. This new executive action gives women across the country the same protection that athletes in Idaho have earned.
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I was proud to support this policy as Speaker when it was in the Idaho House of Representatives, and I am even prouder now that our female athletes’ hard work is being rightfully recognized.
Proper Forest and Wildfire Management
The federal government can also look to Idaho’s forest management as a new playbook. Our state’s rich forests have long been a cornerstone of Idaho’s strong economy. In addition to providing quality jobs, our forests provide watersheds for drinking water and jaw-dropping landscapes for recreation.
But for too long, the federal government’s mismanagement of our national forests has put our state at risk. Bureaucratic red tape, endless environmental litigation, and refusal to implement sound forest management have led to overgrown, unhealthy forests that are fueling catastrophic wildfires. Instead of allowing responsible timber harvesting that creates jobs and keeps our forests healthy, federal agencies have locked up land, ignored local input, and left Idahoans to deal with the consequences.
Meanwhile, our state-managed forests continue to prove that active management—including selective logging, thinning, and controlled burns—reduces fire danger while generating revenue for our schools and communities.
Instead of working with Idaho to create a balanced approach that sustains jobs, protects forest health, and funds education, Washington has catered to radical environmental groups. The time has come for the federal government to step aside and let Idaho take the lead in managing our own lands—or at least, take a page out of our winning playbook.
Idaho Experience in D.C.
Idaho is proud to see two of its own appointed to pivotal roles within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). We know natural resources, and these pivotal appointments reflect that experience.
Michael Boren, founder of Boise-based Clearwater Analytics, has been appointed as the United States Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment. I anticipate his leadership to drive innovative approaches to land and fire management across the country. Joining him is Tom Schultz, who will serve as Chief of Staff for Natural Resources and Environment at USDA. I know that Tom’s experience will be invaluable in overseeing the sustainable management of our nation’s forests and grasslands.
These federal appointments underscore the Trump Administration’s commitment to leveraging Idaho’s expertise because Idaho has a land management plan that works.
