Experience Counts

The Republicans enjoy a strong majority in the Idaho Legislature. This suggests two questions: Can a Democrat represent us effectively, and can Shirley Ringo represent us effectively?

The answers are yes, and yes.

The Democrats in the Idaho Legislature work together as a team to maximize their effectiveness. Prior to each session, we outline our goals and make plans to focus attention upon them. The results are not always immediate, but over time we get results and foster changes in the attitudes of our Republican legislative colleagues.

I have worked to attain committee assignments that are strategically important. My membership on the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee allows me to influence decisions regarding how state money is spent. This is a position coveted by many legislators.

We believe the number of Democrat legislators will be augmented after the November 4 election. There are many excellent candidates around the state, including here in Latah County. If the number of Democrats in the House is increased by just five members, the two-party system will be strengthened significantly. Since proposed amendments to the Idaho Constitution require a two-thirds favorable vote in the House and Senate, the majority party would not be able to move a constitutional amendment forward without buy-in from the opposing party.

Although we would not have sufficient numbers to override a veto by the Governor, we would have the numbers to sustain a veto if that were the desired result. There would also be better bi-partisan representation on legislative committees, assuring a more thorough discussion of issues.