Republicans can no longer ignore the extremist views of Idaho Rep. Heather Scott running in District 1A. A big R next to her name does not make Heather a person deserving of our vote. A look at her record proves my point.

Millions of dollars to the state were almost lost because of Heather’s action in the Idaho Legislature in which she held up a vote to bring back money from overseas dead beat dads to their families. Her logic was based entirely on conspiracy theories about Sharia law. It took Gov. Butch Otter to cure this ridiculous misstep by calling the Legislature back into session. This embarrassment to the state received national attention as one of the dumbest moves by a legislator in the country and it cost Idaho thousands of dollars to reconvene.

In another “brilliant” act, Heather drove to Oregon to support the “illegal” takeover of the Malheur Wildlife Refuge.

In a forum, she instructed the audience about how to “get around” the invasive species inspection stations. She denies this, but I was there.

For these reasons I will cast my vote for her opponent, Kate McAlister.

Kate will protect our lake, our biggest asset, so critical to our economy. As head of the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce for the past seven years, she understands the economics of our district and is someone who will be a partner in representing our families and will work to bring resources home to our district.

I will vote for Kate because she has a track record as a proven leader. As the head of chamber of commerce for the past seven years she understands the business interests of this community. As a member of Angels Over Sandpoint for the past 14 years she has helped support those in need. And as vice chair of the Forrest M. Bird Charter School Board she is actively involved in educational opportunities for our children.

The choice is clear, an extremist working for and with extremist groups or a pragmatic candidate who will work for the people of Bonner County. Make our district sane again.

Vote for Kate McAlister on Nov. 8.

DAWN BRINKER

Hope