OPINION: Forward together
On June 10, the Kootenai County Democrats officially opened a new chapter in North Idaho’s political history. Longtime party Chair Evan Koch stepped away from the chairperson role, and civic leader Sarah Martin stepped into it, with Adam Bennett serving as Vice-Chair.
With the leadership change comes a new name on the weekly CDA Press opinion pages. Although one person’s name will be on the byline, we are proud to say that these columns continue to represent something bigger. The voices of local Democratic voters are what fuel the ideas for these columns — not the insulated perspectives of one Chairperson.
In this spirit of unity and progress, today’s column became a collaboration between the two of us — the outgoing chair and the incoming chair. Its question and answer style serves as a bridge — linking and contrasting our perspectives about the party’s past, its future, and our hopes for this place we call home.
Question: What’s the mood among local Democrats? Is it changing?
Evan Koch: The people who reach out to me say they are disgusted over the Trump administration’s corruption, bullying, and lies. They are especially offended when they see certain Trump-like behaviors replicated by local officials in Kootenai County. Yet, local Democrats feel joyful and optimistic when they gather with other like minded Idahoans for a rally like they did this past Saturday. Such events may be prompted by awful actions, but they signify the beginning of the end of our national nightmare.
Sarah Martin: The mood among local Democrats is shifting from quiet frustration to growing resolve and meaningful engagement. While the political climate in Kootenai County remains challenging, more people are stepping forward, realizing that silence isn’t an option. There’s a renewed sense of purpose, with newer voices joining long-time members in standing up for core values related to constitutional rights and freedoms.
Question: What do you wish people knew about the committee members — both on the Executive and Central committees?
Evan Koch: The Kootenai County Democratic Executive and Central committees are on the threshold of a new era. Youthful leadership will turbo-charge our commitment to the values we all share: the rule of law over the abuse of authority, civil rights over discrimination, and honesty over corruption.
Sarah Martin: The committee members are volunteers from all walks of life who dedicate countless hours because they care deeply about their community. They’re not career politicians, but neighbors committed to fairness, inclusion, and civic responsibility.
Question: What do you wish people knew about being active with the Kootenai County Democrats?
Evan Koch: I’ve come to learn that Democrats in Kootenai County are one large extended family. We care for one another as much as we care for the values that unite us.
Sarah Martin: What many don’t realize is that being active with the Kootenai County Democrats isn’t about being an expert — it’s about showing up. Whether it's organizing events, knocking on doors, or simply sharing ideas, there’s a role for everyone. It’s also a space where people find connection and hope, even in difficult times.
Question: What is your hope as you look to the future in North Idaho?
Evan Koch: My hope is that with the new infusion of youthful energy, we will run candidates in most, if not all election races, target a particularly vulnerable incumbent, and elect a Democrat in their place.
Sarah Martin: Looking ahead, we hope to foster a North Idaho rooted in respect, decency, and opportunity for all, where people can disagree without dehumanizing each other, where families feel safe, schools are strong, and public servants are accountable. We believe this region can be a place where decency wins and people of all backgrounds can thrive, together.
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Sarah Martin is chairman of the Kootenai County Democrats.
Sarah Martin