Eric Seeley: 'Passion for freedom'

Eric Seeley is running for Idaho State Representative District 3, Seat A. 

Even though he sees himself as an underdog to popular incumbent Rep. Vito Barbieri, Seeley is feeling positive as the election nears on May 19. 

“I’m trying to remain faithful to Christ and run a campaign with integrity,” he said. 

The former pastor started Redeeming Grace Church in 2013. The church later closed as Seeley turned his focus to family and work. 

The Hayden man said he was inspired by the trucker Freedom Convoy in 2022 and has been a truck driver about three years, with routes in the Pacific Northwest. 

"I have a passion for freedom,” he said. 

Seeley said he is an "abortion abolitionist,” meaning he is against abortion for any reason. A pro-lifer, he said, is willing to compromise on the issue. He is not. 

“Babies deserve protection right now, not later,” he said. 

If elected in his first try at political office, Seeley said he would be a strong advocate for life, liberty and property. He opposes excessive government oversight. 

“What good is property if the government is enslaving us with taxation?” he said. 

The 50-year-old said he would like to cap property tax increases to 1% annually. 

He would also like to end Idaho’s grocery tax and believes there should not be taxes on items for infants. 

“Why should young mothers have to pay taxes?” he said. “Why are we taxing necessity items when we need to be taxing luxury items?" 

He said he knows he is the outsider looking in with this campaign but wanted to try. Seeley said he has long worked behind the scenes on legislation and often attends town halls. 

Seeley lived in California and Oklahoma before moving to Idaho about 25 years ago. He said his status as a longtime resident is important. He said he believes he resonates with those who don’t want to see North Idaho changed into California.

“I bring a unique perspective,” he said. 

He and his wife have been married 25 years and have three children. 

“I am a man of my word," he said. "I run my marriage, my business and my church with integrity." 

Barbieri did not respond to requests for an interview.