Woodward listens

March 13, 2022

The contrast between state Senator Jim Woodward, R-Sagle, and several members of the Idaho Legislature is striking. Woodward understands how representative government works. Others overreach and ignore the voices of voters. The contrast was apparent March 2 when members of the House State Affairs Committee essentially told those testifying, “It doesn’t matter what you say, our minds are made up.”

Meanwhile, Senator Woodward was writing a column; “Idaho’s grocery sales tax is an issue at every legislative session. Have thoughts? Let’s talk.”

On March 2, the House State Affairs Committee heard testimony on two bills. HB 693 sponsored by Priscilla Giddings, R-White Bird, would prohibit ballot drop boxes. HB 692 sponsored by Dorothy Moon, R-Stanley, would change voter identification and registration procedures.

No one testified in favor of these bills. No one.

Did the members of the committee act on the testimony of county clerks, election workers and citizens and reject the bills? No. Just three of the 14-member committee voted to support the testimony of Idahoans.

Contrast that Senator Woodward’s approach. He wants to hear from Idahoans. In his column, which was published in several newspapers, Woodward provides background facts, not rhetoric, in setting the stage for the conversation. He writes, "I am open to input and would value your thoughts at JWoodward@senate.idaho.gov."

This is how representative government is supposed to work. That's why Jim Woodward has my support May 17.