Idaho Leaders United

24/02/2026

We commend the Meridian Police Department and their federal partners for making an arrest in connection with last week’s dangerous incident at the Portico North building. Swift action by law enforcement helped prevent further harm and brought stability to an alarming situation for our community.

Idahoans may strongly disagree about policies or how facilities are used, but peaceful, lawful engagement is the only acceptable path forward. Violence and destruction undermine constructive civic participation and the rule of law. Our state is strongest when we resolve differences through dialogue, accountability, and respect for public safety.

Meridian Police announced the arrest of 43-year-old Sarah George, who is being identified as the suspect in last week's ambulance theft. George is facing several federal charges for involvement in damaging a Department of Homeland Security-leased space. Here's what we know: https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/crime/police-boise-woman-arrested-stolen-ambulance-crash-meridian-dhs-office-building/277-3ac560e7-a05a-4815-96a2-63bf1f7c2d5c?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_KTVB

17/10/2025

“As U.S. Attorney for the District of Idaho, [Hurwit] prosecuted cases solely on their merits—never swayed by politics or by which agency might be involved. His focus was always on protecting the state of Idaho and its citizens," said Tracy Basterrechea, Meridian Chief of Police. "Years before today's rise in political violence, Josh recognized the danger of escalating rhetoric and sounded the alarm. His leadership in the DOJ's “United Against Hate” Initiative made a real and lasting impact here in Idaho."

We are proud to honor Josh Hurwit for his leadership and commitment to an Idaho free from political violence and bigotry.

October 15, 2025 (Boise, IDAHO) – Idaho Leaders United (ILU) hosted its third annual reception in Boise on Tuesday evening, gathering lawmakers, industry leaders, law enforcement, city officials, and Idahoans from across the state to celebrate respect, inclusivity, and constructive discourse.&

14/09/2025

Thank you to faith leaders across Idaho for affirming your commitment to nonviolence and demonstrating that Idahoans can come together across political and religious difference.

The statement invited all people "of every faith and none" to resist violence "not with silence or despair, but with courage, truth, and hope."

11/09/2025

From Idaho Leaders United board member Tommy Ahlquist.

"Idaho Leaders United has typically refrained from commenting on political violence outside of Idaho, instead choosing to focus on the challenges and opportunities in our home state. However, today, we cannot remain silent. Political violence in any form is unacceptable. We once again remind Idahoans to reject violence and intimidation both in person and online. Without an ongoing, sustained commitment to civil discourse, the things we hold dear about this state, and our country, will not hold fast for our children and grandchildren. Please join us in standing up against political violence and extremism."

TAKE THE PLEDGE Idaho Statement Condemning Political ViolenceThe Idaho way of life is built on hard work, respect for each other, and a commitment to serve our communities. For the vast majority of Idaho’s statehood, we’ve been small in population number, but large in generosity of spirit. Idah...

25/08/2025

Deseret News reports that the Idaho Family Policy Center, an influential Idaho-based group, “would not oppose declaring Idaho a “Christian state” and implementing religious tests for public office.” For their purposes, even members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints would not qualify for public office though more than a quarter of Idaho’s population are members of the LDS faith.

Religious litmus tests in Idaho? How a powerful Idaho conservative group is changing the conversation.

01/07/2025

The entire State of Idaho grieves the profound loss of the firefighters killed in the shocking ambush in North Idaho. I have ordered flags to fly at half-staff effective immediately.

Please join Teresa and me as we continue to pray for the victims and their loved ones.

13/06/2025

A message from former Idaho Director of Homeland Security Bill Shawver

In the wake of national news stories about protests—and in advance of upcoming planned events here in Idaho—Idaho Leaders United shares the following message and encourages all Idahoans to live out our shared values.

Idahoans have long taken pride in our ability to disagree without becoming disagreeable. Ours is a history of neighbors helping neighbors, even when they don’t see eye to eye. That legacy is worth protecting. At a time of deep national division, we must remember that free speech is one of our most cherished rights—and it comes with the responsibility to use it wisely. Healthy debate, peaceful protest, and civic engagement are vital to a strong democracy. But when political disagreements escalate into threats, intimidation, or violence, we all lose.

Now more than ever, Idahoans must lead by example. That means standing up for our beliefs with courage and conviction—while rejecting fear, hate, or harm. We can be passionate without being destructive. We can advocate for what we believe in while still respecting the rule of law and the dignity of others. By doing so, we not only uphold the Constitution—we carry forward the spirit of Idaho: fair-minded, independent, and grounded in mutual respect.

Bill Shawver

Former Director, Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security

01/04/2025

Free speech is a cherished right for Americans, but that right is undermined when protestors use violence to express their views. As Idahoans, let's remember to uphold our value of respect for the rule of law when we protest.

27/02/2025

From ILU Board member Sheriff Gary Raney:

"A strong society can and must reject political violence while upholding the right to free expression. This requires principled leadership, fair law enforcement, and a commitment to the values that make democratic governance possible. Kudos to the Coeur d’Alene Police Department, Prosecutor and city leadership for upholding their constitutional responsibilities."

Read more here:

Recent events in our state highlight the need for Idahoans to firmly reject political violence while protecting free speech.

11/02/2025

Meet one of our new Board members - Jacque Walton!

A Boise native, Jacque serves as a real estate partner with Holland & Hart. After practicing law in Las Vegas for 14 years, Jacque returned to her hometown with a fresh perspective and a commitment to maintaining Idaho as an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family. She has joined Idaho Leaders United because she believes in bringing people together to find solutions and maintain Idaho’s legacy as a peaceful community where future generations can thrive.

Jacque’s commitment to fostering a violence-free Idaho is evident through her service on the Pacific Northwest Advisory Board and Executive Committee for the Anti-Defamation League and her pro bono work with Lawyers for Good Government. As a graduate of Leadership Boise and an active community leader, she strives to bring people together and be part of solutions that strengthen Idaho’s future.

Jacque is passionate about preserving and enhancing the values that make Idaho special for current and future generations.