UPDATE: Independent candidate Todd Achilles is shaking up the Idaho political landscape as he challenges long-serving Republican Jim Risch for a seat in the U.S. Senate, aiming for significant electoral change ahead of the November 2024 elections. With growing dissatisfaction over economic inequality and the two-party system, Achilles believes he can rally Idahoans to his cause.
During a recent press event with the Lewiston Tribune, Achilles stated, “The core issue that I hear again and again from folks on the right, the left, or in the middle, is it’s the rigged economy, and it’s just not working.” He argues that approximately 60% of Idaho residents earn less than a livable wage. “Idahoans can’t afford to live in Idaho,” Achilles emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for economic reform.
Achilles, who has served in the Idaho Senate and currently teaches public policy, is leveraging his political experience against Risch, who is seeking a fourth term. He is touring the state to connect with voters and share his vision for economic justice, which he believes resonates across party lines. “This is what has got folks excited around the country and why you hear more about this purple revolution,” he stated, referring to a potential shift in Senate power dynamics.
Achilles proposes that if independents can secure their seats, they could become pivotal tie-breakers in the Senate, effectively controlling its agenda. His calculations suggest that if Democrats gain two seats and two independents win, there would be a formidable bloc of independents to influence legislation.
The candidate is particularly concerned about monopolistic practices in the housing and healthcare sectors. He pointed out that national property management companies are manipulating rental prices, which have surged in Idaho cities like Boise, outpacing inflation. “Rents in the Treasure Valley and Coeur d’Alene have increased three times faster than inflation,” he noted, calling for an end to these exploitative practices.
Achilles also criticized major corporations for keeping employees just below full-time status to evade healthcare requirements, leading many to rely on government assistance. He stated, “It’s a function of ‘how do you exploit the community,’ rather than ‘how do you contribute to the community.’”
On environmental issues, Achilles lauded Rep. Mike Simpson’s ambitious $33.5 billion initiative to save Snake River salmon but expressed concerns about its focus on maintaining the status quo. He indicated that more aggressive action is necessary to preserve the salmon runs, which are at risk.
In the wake of recent military developments, Achilles voiced his discontent over the announcement that Mountain Home Air Force Base will host Qatari jet fighters. He criticized Risch’s lack of transparency regarding the program, urging for community discussions to properly inform Idahoans about its implications.
Achilles believes Risch, who has held office for over a decade, is increasingly disconnected from the needs of Idaho voters. “I think roughly a quarter of Idaho voters don’t even know who he is, and those that do don’t really like him,” he asserted, suggesting that the incumbent may be more focused on international engagements than local concerns.
As Achilles ramps up his campaign efforts, the political climate in Idaho is heating up. His independent platform aims to challenge the status quo and resonate with voters seeking real change. Idahoans will be watching closely as this race unfolds, with potential implications for the broader national political landscape.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and the election date approaches.
