The Kootenai County Democrats will host a Democracy Dinner Gala on Sept. 23 in Coeur d’Alene.

The keynote speaker for the fundraising event will be Rep. Chris Mathias (D-Boise), who gained national attention for his defense of education funding as House Bill 387 was under debate. Idaho Democratic Party Chair Rep. Lauren Necochea (D-Boise) will be the evening’s emcee.

“Now more than ever, we need elected officials who are champions of democracy, who reject partisan extremism, and who lead with ethics,” said Evan Koch, Kootenai County Democratic Central Committee chairman, in a news release announcing the event. “Strong public servants have stepped up to run for office and they deserve our support. The event aims to bolster Democratic candidates in their bid to take Idaho back from the brink of extremist politics.”

Democratic candidates from throughout Idaho are expected to attend, including:

• Larry Bieber (Candidate for Idaho Legislative District 4)

• Teresa Borrenpohl (Candidate for Idaho Legislative District 5, Seat B)

• Kristy Johnson (Candidate for Idaho Legislative District 5, Seat A)

• Tom Stroschein (Candidate for Idaho Legislative District 2)

• Ruben Miranda (Candidate for Kootenai County Commissioner)

• Terri Pickens Manweiler (Candidate for Idaho Lieutenant Governor)

• Tom Arkoosh (Candidate for State Attorney General)

• Kaylee Peterson (Candidate for State Representative, Congressional District 1)

• David Roth (Candidate for U.S. Senate)

The gala will also include a live and silent auction. Check in and social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with live musical entertainment. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $100, or $750 for a table of eight.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/DemDinnerGala or by contacting Carolyn Mattoon at carolynfmattoon@gmail.com.