DART announces candidate endorsements

COEUR d'ALENE — DART, a nonpartisan group made up of community-minded Democrats, Republicans and Independents, is recommending the following candidates in the Nov. 7 elections according to Rick Palagi, chair.  

“DART’s recommendations are closely aligned with CEQEC, NDOC and other community groups that are interested in qualified, reasonable, nonpartisan leadership of our local institutions. It seems clear who the preferred candidates are in many of these contested races and their interest in serving the entire community without any partisan or ideological influence,” said Palagi. “The consensus is striking and important for voters to consider."

DART’s recommendations are: 

• CDA City Council – Christie Wood, Dan Gookin, and Dan English 

• Hayden Mayor – Alan Davis 

• Hayden City Council – Roger Saterfiel 

• Post Falls City Council – James Steffensen and Joe Bodman 

• Rathdrum Mayor – John Lamb 

• Kootenai County Fire & Rescue Commission – Pam Houser 

• Northern Lakes Fire Protection District – Zach Hamilton 

• CDA School District – Jimmy McAndrew and Heather Tenbrink 

• Lakeland School District – Randi Bain, Cherish Hansen, and Sheila Holfeltz 

DART reviewed the candidates' profiles, their own statements and press releases, and the endorsements each has received from other organizations throughout our community.  

“Our positions on these candidates running in contested races for nonpartisan offices reflect our mission and values,” said Palagi. “The most important thing is for residents to do their own,  non-biased research and of course, vote.” 

DART was initiated in late 2020 as a way for community-minded members of all (and no)  political persuasions to work together for the benefit of the entire community. The grassroots organization advocates for sound, civil, and thoughtful community leaders in positions of governance and public service.  

Review DART's November 2023 Election Summary here on cdapress.com