AGP Executive Report

Congressional Race: In Washington’s 4th District, Republicans Jerrod Sessler and Amanda McKinney are vying to replace Dan Newhouse, with campaign finance and prior election results shaping the contest. Idaho Housing: A new Sen. Mike Crapo survey finds Idaho renters are squeezed by deposits, fees, and rent costs, while homeowners worry about property taxes and insurance—pressing lawmakers to expand housing supply. Military & National Guard: Idaho’s 124th Fighter Wing welcomed a new commander at Gowen Field, and the Idaho National Guard also deactivated its 116th Brigade Engineer Battalion as it shifts from armor to a more mobile force. Public Safety Tech: Caldwell police say AI sound-detection and Flock cameras helped track a gunman quickly after a shooting call. Energy Policy: The U.S. Energy Department says an advanced microreactor at Idaho National Lab reached criticality, a step toward future electricity generation. LGBTQ+ Community: Coeur d’Alene marked the 10th annual Pride in the Park with community groups and families. Courts & Legal: A Trump-nominated Ninth Circuit judge in Idaho Falls faces misdemeanor charges tied to an aggressive parking-lot dispute. Environment & Health: Idaho’s trans bathroom ban heads toward federal court scrutiny as the Supreme Court weighs related athlete restrictions.

Nuclear Breakthrough at INL: The U.S. Department of Energy says Antares’ Mark-0 microreactor at Idaho National Laboratory reached “criticality,” a key step toward generating electricity within a few years, under a Trump-era reactor pilot program backed by the Energy Department and other contractors with U.S. Army support. LGBTQ+ Rights in Idaho: Boise’s Harrison Boulevard pride flags are missing this June after a new Idaho law ended the display of certain flags on government-owned property, drawing pushback from residents who say the tradition mattered. Trans Athlete Ban in Court: A federal Supreme Court fight over Idaho’s transgender athlete ban is still headed toward a decision expected early this summer, with advocates warning of major impacts on students and schools. Housing & Affordability: Sen. Mike Crapo’s office released results from a 2025 Idaho housing survey showing renters struggling with immediate costs and homeowners facing long-term affordability pressures, with lawmakers and local governments constrained in how they can respond. Public Health Watch: Idaho health officials confirmed nearly 60 people sickened after drinking unpasteurized raw milk, with cases tied to two Idaho milking operations. Energy Costs: Gas prices stayed volatile statewide in the week ending May 30, with multiple counties reporting lows for regular and diesel in the mid-$4s to mid-$5s range.

LGBTQ+ Rights in Court: A federal judge heard arguments on whether to pause Idaho’s new transgender restroom law before it takes effect July 1, as six plaintiffs seek a preliminary injunction and debate how the law would be enforced. Local Government & Public Safety: Boise’s Harrison Boulevard pride-flag tradition is ending after a new Idaho law restricts certain flags on government-owned property, while Idaho Falls and other cities move to ban or restrict kratom sales amid local health concerns. Energy & Defense: At Idaho National Lab, a private microreactor developer reached “criticality,” a major step toward electricity by 2027, with the federal push to speed advanced nuclear deployment tied to national security goals. Courts & Land Use: Environmental groups lost a bid to halt early construction on Idaho’s Stibnite gold project, and a separate Idaho case continues over a proposed Pocatello AI data center after a hearing examiner denial. Military & Community: The Idaho National Guard inactivated a WWII-era engineering battalion, and North Idaho law enforcement held a Worley town hall focused on fentanyl and youth safety.

Idaho Courts & Policy: A federal judge in Boise denied environmental groups’ bid for a preliminary injunction to halt early construction on Perpetua Resources’ Stibnite gold mine, saying plaintiffs didn’t show the “critical-path” work would likely cause irreparable harm. Public Lands: A draft Agriculture Department memo would reopen the door to off-road vehicles on millions of acres of national forest land, including areas already recommended for wilderness protections—an Idaho-Montana impact. Nuclear in Idaho: At Idaho National Laboratory, Antares’ Mark-0 microreactor hit “criticality” after a successful zero-power fueled test, a milestone tied to the administration’s push to speed advanced reactor deployment. Local Government: Idaho Falls unanimously banned kratom sales within city limits, effective July 1, while Caldwell police chief Rex Ingram says he will sue over alleged “planned wrongful termination” and political retaliation. Health & Rights: Planned Parenthood’s affiliate says it will let women in Idaho and other states obtain abortion pills in advance for “just in case” use. Energy & Economy: Idaho’s gas prices stayed volatile in late May, with county-by-county lows reported for regular and diesel. State Politics: Idaho lawmakers approved ballot language for two constitutional amendments—one limiting marijuana legalization to the legislature and one making English the state’s official language.

Nuclear Energy: Antares’ Mark-0 microreactor hit first criticality at Idaho National Laboratory, a DOE-backed milestone aimed at getting more designs to criticality by July 4 and positioning reactors for future military sites. Local Government: Ada County finished its post-primary election audit, with hand counts matching machine results exactly. City Hall Watch: Nampa City Council is set to vote June 8 on a new mayor after Mayor Rick Hogaboam’s death, as council members push for a more transparent appointment process. Public Safety & Courts: A judge denied an immediate appeal and refused to pause trial in a Shoshone County child injury case. Civil Rights & Community: Boise Pride flags are missing from Harrison Boulevard after a dispute over who can decide flag displays, with a veteran arguing the city ignored its own policies. State Politics: Idaho legislators approved ballot language for two constitutional amendments—one on marijuana legalization authority and one making English the official state language. Infrastructure & Growth: Post Falls’ urban renewal districts are credited with creating $745M in new taxable value over 20 years, according to a new impact assessment. Energy Costs: Gas prices stayed volatile statewide, with multiple counties reporting the lowest regular prices around late May.

Online Accountability vs. Online Mob: A Pocatello report looks at how “trial by social media” can spiral fast, citing EastIdahoNews.com comment monitoring and past Idaho controversies tied to religion, LGBTQ issues, and political movements. Broadband Funding Oversight: A policy piece urges Idaho lawmakers to keep state broadband offices fully funded and empowered as BEAD rolls out, warning against premature “sunset” dates that could stall long-term buildout. Fraud Crackdown: The FBI launched a new Most Wanted Fraudsters list targeting fugitives accused of stealing tens of millions from taxpayers, investors, and federal programs. Idaho Water Infrastructure: Idaho DEQ approved a $2 million low-interest drinking-water loan for Camp Fire Inland Northwest in Kootenai County to upgrade pumps, generators, reservoirs, and water mains. Idaho Courts & Schools: An Idaho Falls former assistant principal sued District 91, alleging discrimination and retaliation tied to age, sex, disability, and religion. Extremism Watch: Leaked documents described Patriot Front’s growth, with Florida ranked second only to Texas in member presence. Local Public Safety Debate: Idaho Falls residents are set to weigh a proposed kratom ban after coroner and law enforcement raised concerns about deaths and opioid-like effects.

Idaho U.S. Senate Race: Former Idaho legislator and Army veteran Todd Achilles is challenging incumbent Sen. Jim Risch, telling KPVI he’s running as an independent because Congress is stuck in dysfunction and debt, not solutions. Elections & Accountability: Idaho Secretary of State officials say a random audit of Ada County’s May primary ballots matched election-night results, with a more detailed report headed to the Board of Canvassers. Local GOP Governance: Bonner County Republicans vacated a Clark Fork precinct seat after a residency/address challenge against newly elected committeeman Jensen Heisel. Public Safety: Idaho State Police and local agencies are stepping up enforcement during the “100 Deadliest Days” summer stretch, targeting speeding, impaired driving, reckless behavior, and distracted driving. Healthcare Oversight: CMS awarded a four-star rating to the Idaho State Veterans Home in Pocatello, while Sandpoint’s Valley Vista Care Center landed at one star and Bear Lake Memorial Skilled Nursing scored three. Community & Civic Life: Twin Falls police launched a lemonade-stand initiative to support youth entrepreneurs, and the Idaho Community Foundation awarded nearly $1M in grants for education, arts, and youth development statewide.

Trans Bathroom Ban Compliance: Idaho businesses are bracing for a July 1 start to the state’s criminal transgender bathroom ban, with attorneys advising on how the law could apply to private “public accommodations.” Public Safety Crackdown: Idaho State Police, Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office, and Lewiston Police are teaming up for “100 Deadliest Days” enforcement aimed at speeding, reckless driving, impaired driving, distracted driving, and seatbelt violations. Local Government Fees: Orofino City Council discussed water and sewer equity buy-in fees for new connections and re-connections, with a work session set to refine the fee schedule and budget impacts. County Waste Contract: Benewah County commissioners approved revisions to a solid waste independent contractor agreement, including a $63.86 per ton rate and a contract term running through 2031. Idaho Politics: Idaho GOP Chair Dorothy Moon announced she’s running for a third term ahead of the June 18-20 state convention. Election Integrity: Idaho Secretary of State’s office investigated more than 40 campaign complaints before the primary, and Idaho counties selected for post-primary audits. Community Jobs: Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office and Idaho Department of Labor held a hiring event drawing 75 job seekers and featuring about 13 employers. Public Notices: Nez Perce County warned residents about a scam impersonating law enforcement to demand money for alleged warrants.

Idaho Bathroom Law Prep: Idaho employment attorneys are urging businesses to get ready for HB 752, which takes effect July 1 and makes it a misdemeanor to enter a bathroom or changing room that doesn’t match a person’s sex assigned at birth, with penalties that can escalate on repeat offenses. Animal Services Funding: Meridian City Council approved a 3% increase—more than $771,000—for animal control and welfare services via the Idaho Humane Society as budget season begins. Nursing Home Watch: CMS data shows Gateway Transitional Care Center in Bannock County earned a 3-star overall rating in Q1 2026, while Oneida County’s hospital-linked long-term care facility posted a 5-star rating with no fines. Election/Party Politics: Idaho GOP Chairwoman Dorothy Moon announced a bid for a third term, while Idaho election officials investigated campaign complaints ahead of the primary and selected eight counties for post-primary audits. Federal Courts & Idaho Mining: A U.S. District Court in Idaho denied a bid to halt construction of the Stibnite Gold Project, clearing the way for a major domestic antimony source tied to national defense. Local Public Safety: Pocatello’s Citizen Police Academy recognized 13 graduates after hands-on training spanning firearms, SWAT, DUI investigations, and use-of-force. Business & Tech: Analysis highlights how Nvidia’s push for AI helped propel Idaho-based Micron toward a $1T valuation.

Idaho Elections: North Idaho Senate candidate Scott Herndon filed a complaint alleging Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane’s office improperly endorsed his opponent in pre-primary mailers; the matter is now in the hands of the Idaho Attorney General. Idaho GOP Politics: Party chair Dorothy Moon announced she’s running for a third term, setting up another fight over how the Idaho GOP enforces its platform and rules. Public Health & Medicaid: A new Georgetown report finds Idaho’s uninsured rate for young children is among the worst in the U.S., with Idaho rising from 5.8% (2022) to 7.9% (2024). Local Government & Safety: Idaho Falls City Council heard testimony on whether to ban kratom sales, after the Bonneville County coroner linked kratom to multiple deaths. Courts: In Payette County, a judge moved up a pretrial conference in the Stacey Wondra case; trial is still set for Sept. 14. National Policy Watch: A coalition led by West Virginia AG J.B. McCuskey urged the U.S. Supreme Court to limit activist groups from blocking federal permitting before states review projects.

Rural Health Funding: U.S. Sen. Peter Welch says the Senate unanimously passed a bill to extend the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration for five years, keeping Medicare payment tests alive for cash-strapped rural hospitals. Treasure Valley Fire Districts: Kuna and Nampa fire boards are set to vote on whether to move toward consolidating into one district, aiming to handle staffing strain and growth-driven call volume. Idaho Health Access: A new report finds Idaho’s uninsured rate for children under 6 is up 36% in recent years, leaving the state with the fifth-highest young-child uninsured rate. Mountain Home Fire Aftermath: Idaho’s fire marshal says strong winds and two arcing electrical service lines likely sparked last week’s Mountain Home wildfire, which destroyed 15 homes and at least 12 vehicles. Public Safety & Courts: A Nampa man was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for importing obscene matters, while a Bannock County deputy coroner faces felony allegations tied to abuse claims. Local Governance: Franklin City Council weighed a bike ordinance idea that would let adults ride on sidewalks with children, but said it would be hard to enforce under state law.

Mountain Home Fire Update: Idaho investigators say arcing power lines sparked the May brush fire that destroyed 15 homes and damaged at least 12 vehicles, with six law enforcement personnel hospitalized. Wildfire Readiness: The Idaho National Guard and Idaho Department of Lands trained together for the 2026 fire season, including Black Hawk water-bucket drills and Wildland Firefighter 2 training for more than 250 Guardsmen. Idaho Growth & Housing Policy: A new look at Idaho’s population boom points to migration as the main driver, while a short-term rental law taking effect this July shifts how local governments can regulate rentals. Elections & Oversight: Idaho election officials are drawing counties for a post-primary audit, and a voting audit is underway for the May 19 primary. Public Safety & Crime: Idaho law enforcement is investigating multiple illegal cattle killings across south Idaho, with some animals butchered; the malicious killing of livestock is a felony. Idaho Politics: Idaho GOP chair Dorothy Moon announced she’s running for a third term ahead of the June 18–20 state convention.

LGBTQ+ Climate: A new State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index says acceptance of gay people has fallen for four straight years, with the national average score dropping to 53.1 and the middle ground shrinking fast. Tribal & Water Policy: A report on dredging the Columbia River argues the work is being done at the expense of tribal and aquatic communities. Public Safety & Courts: Idaho State Police are asking for witnesses after a truck went into the Payette River near Cascade; at least one occupant escaped but may be more, and hazardous currents are slowing recovery. Community Response: Mountain Home residents rallied at Brie’sta Coffee Co. for a fundraiser supporting families and first responders affected by the recent fire, with proceeds going to the Mountain Home Burn Out Fund. Livestock Crime: Ranchers in Gooding and Jerome counties say multiple cattle were shot in remote grazing areas; investigators are still looking for suspects. Elections & Media Access: A retransmission fight between Scripps Local Media and DirecTV left 54 local stations dark nationwide, with DirecTV warning it could disrupt coverage ahead of June primaries.

Immigration Enforcement: Idaho immigrants are facing steep U.S. fines—some topping $1 million—after deportation orders, with families describing detention and fear of further harm while fighting for stability. Elections & Accountability: Idaho election officials randomly selected eight counties for post-primary election audits, with the schedule set to begin June 1. Public Safety & Law Enforcement: A Forest Service dispatcher was honored for her role during the Canfield Mountain shooting response, where dispatchers helped coordinate after firefighters were ambushed. State Politics & Campaigns: The Secretary of State’s office investigated more than 40 campaign complaints before the May primary, with most resolved and some still pending. Courts & Criminal Justice: A woman was sentenced in Idaho Falls for prostitution trafficking tied to an illegal massage business. Community Planning: Kootenai County is seeking public input to update its comprehensive plan and launch a Parks & Waterways Plan. Federal Policy Watch: The Supreme Court’s June docket includes major fights over birthright citizenship, gun rights, transgender athletes, and limits on Trump’s power over independent agencies.

Election Integrity & Audits: Ada County election officials drew the tile that puts Idaho’s primary results on the audit list, with eight counties and precincts randomly selected for spot checks next week. Local Governance: Boise leaders are proposing the maximum 3% property tax increase for the 2027 budget, with residents split between funding public safety and frustration over higher bills. Public Safety: Treasure Valley mayors and law enforcement are rolling out a Greenbelt safety push after concerns about high-powered electric motorcycles and unauthorized vehicles on the Boise River trail. Courts & Police Accountability: An Ada County judge affirmed a Meridian man’s guilty verdict in a viral 2024 dirt-bike arrest, while criticizing part of the officer’s use of force as “a chilling image.” Idaho Issues: Idaho State Police and local agencies are investigating a string of livestock shootings and mutilations across southern Idaho, treating confirmed illegal killings as felony-level crimes. Civic Life: The first regional National Civics Bee in Idaho drew middle school finalists from across the state, with projects focused on improving local schools and community needs. Sports & Education: College of Western Idaho named Mahmood Sheikh its inaugural athletic director as it builds intramurals and plans for intercollegiate athletics. Data Centers & Energy Politics: A national look at the data center boom highlights how state legislatures are responding with incentives, guardrails, or moratoriums as communities push back over power, water, and utility costs.

Election Integrity: Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane’s office randomly selected eight counties—Ada, Butte, Canyon, Franklin, Gooding, Lemhi, Owyhee and Power—for post–May primary ballot audits, with hand-counts and comparisons to official canvasses aimed at boosting voter confidence. Local Government: Boise is proposing the maximum 3% property tax increase for its 2027 budget, arguing it’s needed to cover rising costs for core services like public safety, parks and libraries. Public Safety: Treasure Valley leaders and law enforcement are rolling out a Greenbelt safety push to curb conflicts tied to high-powered electric motorcycles and other unauthorized vehicles, including signage and etiquette reminders. Courts & Police: An Ada County judge upheld a Meridian man’s guilty verdict in a viral 2024 arrest, calling the officer’s force “a chilling image” while affirming the legal basis for resisting orders. Law Enforcement: Idaho State Police and local agencies are investigating a rash of livestock shootings across southern Idaho, with at least three cattle confirmed unlawfully killed and more deaths under review. Statehouse/Policy: Attorney General Tim Griffin led a multistate amicus brief challenging the SEC’s Consolidated Audit Trail over financial data privacy and security risks.