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Idaho State House District 16 B

Idaho House of Representatives members serve a 2-year term and are responsible for translating the public will into public policy for the state, levying taxes, appropriating public funds, and overseeing the administration of state agencies. These responsibilities are carried out through the legislative process — laws passed by elected representatives of the people, legislators.

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  • Candidate picture

    Todd Achilles
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Jon Chu
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Nikson Mathews
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Wayne Richey
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

1. What do you hope to accomplish if elected?

2. What experience has prepared you for this office?

3. What do you see as the most significant challenges Idaho faces that you might be able to address in this position?

4. Would you support legislation to remove criminal liability for physicians and pregnant women experiencing life threatening pregnancy complications and allow for medical and family decisions regarding continuation of that pregnancy. Please explain your response.

5. What else would you like to tell the voters?

Campaign Phone 208-254-0002
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/achilles4idaho
As Representative this past session, I worked with the Democratic caucus to defeat many bad bills and pass 298 constructive ones. I developed trusted relationships with legislators, who helped to stop attacks on elections, unions, schools and immigrants. If elected, I will continue to be relentless in my pursuit to build a more equitable Idaho. I will fight to: 1) Restore women’s right to abortion and healthcare; 2) Increase incentives to build affordable housing; 3) Fully fund our public schools and universities to support students and teachers; 4) Shift the tax burden off the shoulders of middle- and working-class families to the wealthy and corporations; and 5) Restore basic human dignity and essential civil rights.
Raised on a family farm, I learned early the value of hard work and community. My career started as a US Army officer, developing a strong sense of teamwork and leadership. After the military, I embraced challenges in the business world with 20+ years in executive roles at T-Mobile, Hewlett-Packard and startups. Today, I teach public policy to the next generation of leaders. A union member and a co-founder of Veterans for Idaho Voters, I work to promote civic participation and fair elections, while also serving on nonprofit boards. My military, business, non-profit and educator experience provides the foundation to best serve the people of District 16.
First, we must address Idaho’s abortion ban and pass legislation to give women full access to the care they need. Second, we must address Idaho’s unfair economy. Idaho ranks 40th for per capita income and is one of just 20 states that still have an unlivable $7.25/hour minimum wage. We need to raise wages, create more affordable and abundant housing, and rebalance our tax system so the burden is no longer on middle- and working-class families. Third, we need to fully fund our public schools, support our students, pay our teachers a competitive wage and lower the cost to attend Idaho’s universities.
Yes, absolutely. Idaho’s abortion ban is one of the greatest threats to the future of our state. We must work together on a health exception that has the support of Idaho doctors and hospitals. Idaho’s abortion ban is unconscionable for Idaho women. The ban also creates risk and uncertainty for people who want to start families, pushes doctors to leave the state, drives students to colleges outside Idaho, and makes it harder for businesses to recruit employees. This draconian abortion ban must be overturned for the well being of women and the future of Idaho.
I believe passionately in the importance of public service. From my service in the Army, to my many volunteer roles, there is no higher calling than to serve one’s community.

Idaho’s greatest Senator, Frank Church, believed that political leaders must always work to strengthen the public’s trust and faith in government. I share this belief. As your representative, I commit to fight for those who don’t have a voice in the Legislature, I commit to put the interests of District 16 first in every vote, and I commit to create a more fair economy so that every Idahoan has the opportunity to succeed.
Campaign Phone 208-250-3641
If elected, I aim to tackle the healthcare crisis with a medically informed approach, focusing on accessibility and affordability. I hope to address housing affordability in our district and advocating for policies that uplift all residents. Additionally, I'll fight against legislative overreach surrounding the Roe V. Wade reversal, working so our lawmakers don't interfere between patients and providers, while valuing the life and well-being of mothers. I'll listen, learn, then act prioritizing constituent concerns. As your representative, I'll ensure our community's voices are heard and their needs met.
My journey as a physician has equipped me with invaluable skills in listening, problem-solving, and empathy. I've learned the importance of understanding individual needs and collaborating on effective solutions. Through community outreach and advocacy, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges facing our district. My commitment to service, coupled with my understanding of healthcare and community needs, has prepared me to be a strong advocate for our district. As your representative, I will listen to constituents, work tirelessly to address their concerns, and fight for policies that improve their lives.
One significant challenge facing Idaho is the decline in women's healthcare access, particularly in rural areas, following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This has resulted in a loss of OBGYNs and maternity specialists, leading to closures of labor and delivery wards in rural hospitals. Legislative mandates interfering with patient-provider relationships further exacerbate the issue by impeding access to recognized standards of medical care. As a legislator, I will prioritize healthcare accessibility, advocate for evidence-based healthcare policies, and work to address the disparities in women's healthcare access across the state.
Yes, I would support legislation to remove criminal liability for physicians and pregnant women facing life-threatening pregnancy complications. Every individual deserves the right to make medical decisions based on their health and well-being, free from fear of legal repercussions. Allowing medical professionals and families to make informed decisions regarding the continuation of a pregnancy in such circumstances is essential for ensuring the safety and autonomy of both the pregnant individual and their family. Protecting these rights is crucial for upholding medical ethics and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all.
I'm committed to action, not just words. I prioritize environmental sustainability in my own home by using solar panels and xeriscaping. I advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, ensuring equality and protection for all. Most importantly, I staunchly oppose legislative intrusion into medical decisions, particularly between a mother and her doctor. I pledge to fight for your rights, prioritize healthcare, and champion progressive values in Idaho House District 16B.
Campaign Phone 2088511895
Campaign Website http://niksonforidaho.com
I joined this race to ensure the Statehouse's efforts represent Idaho's diversity. I will focus on economic security by promoting fair and affordable housing, post-secondary options, and job training for better pay with minimal debt and protecting Medicaid. In addition, fully funding public education is a priority to improve teacher salaries, school safety, and mental health resources.

As a lifelong Idahoan, a full-time worker, a product of our public schools, and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I bring a younger, dynamic perspective that will help drive these changes, advocating for policies that offer relief and opportunity for Idahoans. ---
I'm a leader in a small local business with 13 years of strategic problem-solving experience. I’m well-practiced at collaborating across diverse industries, understanding the needs of the people I serve, and communicating clearly and effectively.

As a policy advocate and political lobbyist with a local non-profit, I've worked with our legislators across party lines, providing insights and support to help them advocate for or against policies that impact our LGBTQIA+ community.

As a lifelong Idahoan, I understand the needs of our community and am committed to action that creates equity and opportunity for all of us, not just a few. ---
Idaho faces challenges from an increasing focus on ideological agendas that divert attention and resources from vital community needs. Priorities have shifted towards manufactured issues, leading to legislation that undermines our libraries, public education, reproductive rights, and marginalized groups, including the LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, immigrant, and low-income communities. This shift is evident in recent legislation that distracts from addressing urgent issues like underfunded schools and the growing economic strain on residents. My goal is to focus on creating equitable economic opportunities, increasing education funding, and ensuring the well-being of all Idahoans, countering this trend of extremism and neglect. ---
Yes. Abortion is healthcare. It is essential for preserving the life and well-being of women and people facing life-threatening pregnancy and reproductive complications. The fear and uncertainty, a direct result of Idaho’s harsh anti-abortion laws, have not only affected medical professionals but also impacted Idahoans decisions around family planning, with many feeling compelled to leave the state or delay having children. We need to act urgently to undo these bans. Our laws must safeguard the health and autonomy of individuals, ensuring that critical medical decisions are made based on the needs and rights of patients, not ideological agendas.

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I am here to serve you, not as a politician but as a true representative of your experiences and goals. My campaign is driven by the belief that we can build a better future for Idaho, focusing on issues that matter most to our day-to-day lives. I am committed to bringing your concerns to the forefront, advocating for policies that create opportunities and protect our freedoms. It is only together that we can address the challenges we face and build a stronger, more inclusive Idaho. ---
Affordability..... We must slow down this out of control growth. Those who call this their hometown can no longer afford to live here anymore. New people moving here sell there for a fortune, move here and live like kings. This is an economic advantage locals simply never had. We must find a way to make them pay for their own growing pains.

The other issue is the division between the two parties. Not since the civil war has our nation been so divided. We must work together
Five years ago I ran for Boise mayor. Since then I have become very active in local politics. I have learned so much. The biggest thing I've learned is that I can make a difference. I just can't stand by and watch.
The division between the two parties is killing us. Nothing meaningful is getting done. We must work together and focus on meaningful problems. Healthcare, education, affordability. Those are the issues that need addressed
Let's talk Abortions

Who likes Abortions. No one. I think we can all agree on that

Now comes the tricky part. Every one of you know a girl who has had one or is going to have one. I don't care what your god says or what your political views are. Abortions happen. And don't you dare think this would never happen in your family.

So, there is a girl out there you obviously care very much for. Like it or not she has made her decision this is going to happen.

Dont you want a doctor to do it.

Anyone who would send these girls back to the coat hanger, maybe they are the monster
Im fighting for our kids. They can't afford to live here anymore. Everyone of you know someone who is seriously struggling to get by. Im not ever going to defend Californians moving here. Im fighting for those who call this their hometown.......