OPINION: A tale of two conventions

The Idaho Democrats and the Idaho Republicans recently held their party’s conventions one week apart. The results of each speak volumes about the choices voters have this November.

Let’s compare. 

Republicans added the in-vitro fertilization process to their definition of abortion. Families who are unable to have children naturally will have to add costly out-of-state travel to the price of trying to start a family. By contrast, the Democratic Platform now reads, “We will fight for reproductive freedoms including access to legal abortion, contraception, and IVF.” 

Democrats also say, “We support the right of individuals to make their own medical decisions, including gender-affirming care. Health care providers should not fear criminalization for providing evidence-based care. We oppose laws that are forcing health care providers to leave Idaho and causing clinics to close. We support policies to expand health care services, lower prescription drug prices, protect Medicaid, and improve mental health care access.”

Which party will protect your access to health care?

Following their convention, the Republican Platform now opposes, “using taxpayer funding for programs beyond high school.” This spells the end of popular LAUNCH Grants and paves the way for North Idaho College to become a costly private school. Meanwhile, the Democratic Platform now reads in part, “Education is a lifelong endeavor. Everyone should have access to education; we must invest in early childhood education, special education, technical and vocational training, higher education, job skills training, and continued learning opportunities.”

Which party will protect your children’s access to educational and vocational opportunities? 

Following their convention, Republicans now oppose funding any service that isn’t explicitly spelled out in the State Constitution. This eliminates funding for police, foster care, roads, bridges, child protection, and more. The only services mentioned in the Idaho Constitution are K-12 education and prisons. By contrast, Idaho Democrats say in our platform, “Tax dollars should be invested wisely. We commit to provide access to affordable health care, address climate change, and foster an economy that works for everyone, including a living wage and workers’ rights.”

Republicans voted to repeal the 16th and 17th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution and abolish the Federal Reserve. The 16th Amendment created the federal income tax, the 17th Amendment allows voters to cast direct votes for U.S. Senators. Prior to its passage, senators were chosen by state legislatures. By contrast Democrats say, “We will also promote transparency in government, freedom of the press, our constitutional rights, and the rule of law affirmed by an impartial and independent judiciary.”

Which party defends the Constitution? 

There are significant differences between our vision for Idaho’s future and the restrictive vision of the Republican Party. 

These differences are underlined by one crucial detail: Idaho Republicans must swear allegiance to their party’s platform to run for office. Their platform calls for censuring any member who deviates from party lines. This move effectively excludes free-thinking Republicans from party membership.

Democrats do not require a similar oath, embracing diversity of opinion. 

Idaho voters face a clear choice this November. With knowledgeable, experienced Democrats running in every legislative district, there is an opportunity to counter the current autocratic and intolerant supermajority. By electing Democratic candidates, voters can help restore balance and ensure a government that respects and upholds the freedoms and values we hold dear.

A real choice at the ballot box leads to a More Perfect Union.

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Evan Koch is chairman of the Kootenai County Democrats.