Votes reflect concern for constituents, community

Many thanks to the Bonner Bee for allowing me to address some inconsistencies in recent letters to the editor.

Voting on bills is more nuanced than supporting an issue. Effectiveness, constitutionality, necessity, fiscal impact and consequences all matter too. Nearly 90% of my votes are with the Republican majority in the House.

The issues listed below matter to our voters. I have addressed them with conservative Idaho values.

I have consistently voted to reduce taxes. I supported President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill. It reduces taxes on workers and helps seniors and families.

We made significant cuts (over $250 million) to our 2026 and 2027 budgets to accommodate these tax policy decisions. My votes reflect my concern for affordability.

Insurance rates and concerns for catastrophic fires have increased considerably for many property owners in the last 5 years. I carried bills to address efficiency in fire districts and help property owners (HB208, HB765, HB562a, etc.). My bills and votes reflect my concern for our public safety, affordability and housing costs.

I have consistently listened to our community and voted accordingly. For example, I voted to keep men out of women’s restrooms, twice in 2026 (HB 607 & HB 752). I vote to protect women and children.

A lack of women’s/specialty healthcare is very concerning and likely won’t improve without attention by the legislature. Transporting patients to CDA for routine care isn’t good healthcare. I carried pro-life bills in 2025 and 2026 to provide clarity for doctors.

Access to rural healthcare services and the financial well-being of our hospitals is problematic for North Idaho. We will have a unique opportunity to invest in our rural hospitals for the next few years (SB1453). I will fight to get the support our local providers and communities have earned.

I have consistently voted to support our law enforcement agencies (SB1435, 2024).

I have voted for immigration enforcement with HB704 (E-Verify) and SB1260.

Our students and families have a myriad of choices for their education, including career technical education. These options make Idaho one of the best ‘school choice’ states in the country.

My four-year record is one of showing up, listening, and getting things done. I work hard for District #1. I have been fortunate to earn the support of many. I trust our voters to make an informed decision on who would best represent them for the next two years. 

MARK SAUTER

Sandpoint