UPDATE: Former Idaho senator and independent candidate Todd Achilles has thrown his hat into the ring, aiming to unseat three-term Republican senator Jim Risch in the upcoming 2024 midterm elections. With a focus on economic reform, Achilles asserts that voter dissatisfaction with the current political landscape will propel him to victory.
Achilles, a resident of Boise, is campaigning on a platform he describes as a “purple revolution,” addressing what he calls a “rigged economy” and a dysfunctional two-party system. “The core issue I hear from Idahoans is that the economy is not working for them,” Achilles stated during a visit to the Lewiston Tribune on October 18, 2023. He claims that nearly 60% of Idahoans do not earn a livable wage and emphasizes the need to break up monopolies and restore fair wages.
The stakes are high as Achilles targets Risch, who has served in the Senate for over 15 years and is seeking a fourth term. Achilles believes that if he and other unaffiliated candidates succeed, they could shift the balance of power in the Senate. “If Democrats pick up two seats and two independents win, we could have 49 Republicans, 47 Democrats, and four independents—a game changer,” he explained.
Achilles, who has a background in the tech industry and has served two years in the Idaho Senate, argues that large corporations have manipulated market conditions to the detriment of average citizens. He pointed out that rent prices in the Treasure Valley and Coeur d’Alene are increasing at a rate three times faster than inflation, which he attributes to collusion among property management companies. “That doesn’t happen in a competitive market,” he said, highlighting a growing concern about the affordability crisis affecting Idahoans.
In addition to housing, Achilles criticized the healthcare system, claiming that many companies strategically keep employees under full-time status to avoid providing health insurance. “It’s about exploiting the community rather than contributing to it,” he said, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change.
Achilles is also vocal about environmental issues, particularly regarding a recent initiative proposed by Rep. Mike Simpson to save Snake River salmon through a $33.5 billion plan involving dam breaching. While he appreciates the effort, he believes it does not go far enough to create a sustainable solution for the salmon population.
Moreover, Achilles expressed concerns about the Mountain Home Air Force Base recently being designated to host and train Qatari jet fighters, criticizing Risch for not adequately communicating the implications of this decision to constituents. He stated, “Good governance means engaging with communities and explaining why decisions are made.”
Despite the traditional Republican dominance in Idaho, Achilles is confident that Risch is vulnerable. “Many voters don’t even recognize his name, and those who do are disheartened,” he claimed, indicating a growing disconnect between Risch and his constituents.
As Achilles continues his campaign, he is actively touring the state, aiming to connect with voters and share his vision for a more equitable Idaho. The political landscape is shifting, and with his ambitious goals, Achilles is positioning himself as a formidable challenger in the upcoming elections.
Stay tuned for more updates as the election approaches and the political dynamics evolve in Idaho.
