OPINION: Idaho’s role in preserving the Electoral College

Tuesday, Dec. 17, marked a historic day at the Idaho State Capitol, as the state’s four electors cast their votes for the president and vice president of the United States. This ceremonial event highlights the unique role Idaho plays in the Electoral College, our nation’s system for electing its highest leaders.

America does not elect presidents solely through the popular vote. Each state is assigned electors based on its representation in Congress. Larger populated states have more electors, while smaller populated states like Idaho have fewer. Idaho has had four electors since the 1910 Census, ensuring smaller states still have a voice in choosing our nation’s leaders — a principle the Founding Fathers believed was critical for balancing power between states of varying sizes. This system makes every state’s input matter, including Idaho’s.

When Idahoans cast their ballots in last month’s presidential election, they weren’t voting directly for their preferred candidate. Instead, they were voting for four individuals — Brent Regan (Kootenai County Chair), Jean Mollenkopf-Moore (Region 6 Chair), Doyle Beck (longtime Idaho Republican Party member), and Vicki Keen (National Committeewoman) — chosen by the Idaho Republican Party Elector Nominating Committee to represent the state’s popular vote result. These electors cast Idaho’s votes for Donald J. Trump and J.D. Vance.

Jean Mollenkopf-Moore reflected on the significance of the experience, noting how representing a rural part of the state left a profound impact on her. By participating in the Electoral College, she ensured that even small, local communities like Boise County had a voice in the national election process.

At the ceremony, Idaho’s electors met in the Lincoln Auditorium to carry out their official duty, marking the third consecutive presidential election in which Idaho's votes went to Donald Trump. The electors reflected on their responsibilities, adding a personal touch to the historic day.

Witnessing the casting of electoral votes is a powerful reminder of our nation’s enduring traditions. While America remains a relatively young nation, ceremonies like this connect us to the principles established at its founding. From George Washington’s election in 1789 to the present day, the Electoral College continues to represent the balance of power between states, ensuring that Idaho — and every other state — has a voice in selecting our national leadership.

With Trump’s election breathing new life into the country, Idaho’s participation in preserving these historic traditions is something to be proud of. Events like this not only recall our history but also inspire hope for our republic’s future.

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Dorothy Moon is the IDGOP Chairwoman.