OPINION: 2024 starts now

Just yesterday we went to the polls and elected folks who will lead our cities, our schools, and our fire districts. Now we must respect the election results, and those who won.

However, as engaged citizens, our work is just beginning. We don’t have to let the winners rule with chaotic abando. We can vow to hold newly elected officials accountable to the promises they made, and the people they represent. 

Start now by asking officials how they plan to address all of the problems we face: insufficient affordable housing, inadequate funding for public education, unmitigated climate change, lack of access to women’s healthcare, etc.

If their responses to these crucial questions are dismissive or nonsensical, you could just go home and stress out. 

Or you could get involved.

Run for something. Most voters want to elect qualified, mature adults who are morally upright and respectful of our participatory democracy.

Run for precinct captain in your own voting precinct. Both parties need good people who will faithfully represent the party to the voters, and represent the voters to the party.

Run for a countywide or statewide office. Next November we will elect North Idaho College Trustees, Kootenai County Commissioners, a U.S. Representative and Senator, and (of course) a President. Now is the time to consider our future.

If you object to the extremists in positions of power, run against one. There is a hunger in Kootenai County for competent, caring leaders. Voters are desperate to vote for someone other than a KCRCC “vetted” candidate.

Call your friends and loved ones, ask if they would support you. If the answer is yes, ask them to put their money where their mouth is. You might be surprised at how readily people will support you. 

And you won’t be alone. Reach out to the Democratic Party. We have resources, instructions, training, databases, and even money to help first time candidates.

But don’t wait too long. The year will pass quickly. 

Unseating an incumbent is not easy, but it’s not impossible. And it is the best way to perfect our union.

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Evan Koch is chairman of the Kootenai County Democrats.