ELECTION: Look past labels

ELECTION: Look past labels

Jim Risch has been involved in Idaho politics for more than 55 years and has served in the U.S. Senate for 18 years. Whether you agree with his politics or not, there comes a point when voters should ask a simple question: What comes next?

If Senator Risch wins another term, he would be serving well into his 80s. If he chooses to retire before completing that term, which he likely do, Idaho voters could find themselves in a familiar situation where party insiders — not the people — effectively determine who represents us in Washington. That possibility deserves far more discussion than it has received.

This election presents Idaho with two credible challengers, but in my view, Todd Achilles stands out. He has extensive public policy experience, is an effective communicator, and has demonstrated an ability to work with both Republicans and Democrats. At a time when political division dominates nearly every issue, that ability matters.

The greatest obstacle to change in Idaho is not a particular candidate; it is the tendency of many voters to select a party rather than evaluate the individual seeking office. More than ever, Idaho needs voters willing to look beyond labels and ask who is best prepared to represent the state's interests on day one.

For me, that candidate is Todd Achilles. But regardless of whom you support, Idahoans should think carefully about whether they want to choose their next senator themselves — or leave that decision to party leaders at some point in the future.

REID HARLOCKER
Coeur d'Alene