Norris claims big win

COEUR d'ALENE — Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris cruised to an easy win in Tuesday's Republican primary election.

Norris received 22,695 votes, 80.8%, with all 73 precincts reporting to claim what was an expected victory over challenger Mike Bauer, who received 5,375 votes, 19.1%.

"I have such strong support because I believe I've engaged this community to a degree they've never seen a sheriff engage this community," he said during a gathering of supporters at Seasons of Coeur d'Alene. "I have support all the way from 19-year-olds to 80-year-olds. It certainly shows everywhere I go."

A smiling and happy Norris was surrounded by supporters as music played. Signs that read, "Norris for Kootenai County Sheriff," hung on walls. He said he has developed a strong base that appreciates his efforts and he plans to continue doing what has been successful in bolstering the KCSO's ability to protect citizens.

"I have a pretty high favorable rating with the community, is the way that I'm taking it," he said.

Norris was elected to a four-year term in 2020 when he topped a four-person field with 9,931 votes, or 44.2%.

This was Bauer’s third run for public office. He ran for sheriff in 2020 and clerk in 2022.

“There’s so much change going on in the (Kootenai County Republican Central Committee) world and the civil war that they’re having,” Bauer said. “It’s kind of a unique time to put my hat in the ring and see what North Idaho people think of me.”

Bauer said he wishes Norris the best.

“This is a referendum on his tenure so far,” he said. “We’ll see what the voters want to do with him.”

Norris will face three independent challengers in November: Justin Nagel, Kyle Woodward and Dan Wilson.