OPINION: Which election actually decides Idaho’s future?

Idaho has become a destination. People across the country are looking here and seeing something they feel is slipping away elsewhere — freedom, community and a way of life rooted in responsibility and independence. The Idaho way is something worth protecting.

But here’s the reality: it doesn’t protect itself.

We hear it all the time — people are busy, life is full and voting can feel like one more thing on the list. But in Idaho, we’ve made it simple. There are only two elections each year. Voting takes minutes, not hours. You can request an absentee ballot, vote early in person or show up on Election Day. The Idaho system is secure, and it works.

So, the question isn’t whether we can vote. It’s will we?

Because in Idaho, the election that matters most isn’t November — it’s May.

The simple reality is that the May Republican Primary is where decisions are made. That’s where leadership is chosen. And yet, historically, far fewer than one in three voters show up. Think about that. A small fraction of the population is deciding the direction of our county and state — for everyone.

If you want to have a real impact, this is your moment.

The May ballot isn’t just about top offices. It includes legislators, county commissioners and local leadership positions that directly affect our daily lives. It also includes precinct committeemen — people most Idahoans have never heard of, but who form the foundation of the Republican Party — and serve on the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC).

These are your neighbors. They’re the ones organizing at the ground level, shaping the direction of the party from the inside out. And this year, we’re seeing something remarkable — an unprecedented number of people stepping up to serve in these roles. Veterans. Firefighters. Former elected officials. School board and community service members. People who didn’t necessarily seek the spotlight but felt called to protect the freedom and foundational principles that we all have as Americans.

That’s how a healthy party — and a healthy republic — works.

It doesn’t rely on a small group. It grows by bringing people in.

If you know someone who has stepped away from the Republican Party, invite them back. If they feel disconnected, remind them they can affiliate and participate. North Idaho Republicans believe there’s room in this party for people who care about Idaho and America’s future and are willing to engage.

Because engagement is the difference.

We’ve inherited a great deal in this country. Generations before us built the foundation we stand on today. They showed up. They sacrificed. They participated. Now it’s our turn — not just to benefit from that legacy, but to carry it forward with strength and perseverance.

That includes encouraging the next generation. Young people are watching. They’re paying attention. And they need to see what civic responsibility looks like — not only as an obligation, but also as an opportunity.

Run for office. Serve on a board. Volunteer. Vote. Lead.

The truth is simple: No one is coming to save our communities. That responsibility belongs to us. And the good news is — we’re more than capable of meeting it.

So, mark your calendar. Make a plan. You have three great ways you can vote. Request your ballot online, vote early in person or show up on Election Day, May 19.

Whatever you do — don’t sit this one out.

Because in Idaho, the future shouldn’t be decided just by the loudest voices.

But it will surely be decided by the ones who show up to vote in May.

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Sandy Patano is a former GOP State Party vice-president and co-founder of North Idaho Republicans.