Why It Matters
With two weeks remaining before Election Day, Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane is reminding candidates, political action committees and individuals to identify money used to influence voters.
What Happened
McGrane issued the reminder Tuesday after his office received complaints about multiple political advertisements. One complaint involved a mass text message sent Monday endorsing U.S. Sen. Jim Risch. The message addressed recipients as “fellow Democratic Socialist,” but did not identify who sent or paid for it.
The Boise chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America denied involvement with the message.
McGrane’s office also received complaints about signs, handouts and stickers opposing Proposition 1, a ballot initiative that would rescind Idaho’s abortion ban.
McGrane said political spending should disclose the person or organization paying for signs, posters, stickers, text messages and digital advertisements. He said the rule applies regardless of which candidate or ballot position a group supports.
“Idaho’s campaign finance laws exist to shine a light on political spending,” McGrane said.
By the Numbers
- Two weeks remained until Election Day when the reminder was issued.
- Monday was the day the disputed mass text message was sent.
- Proposition 1 would rescind Idaho’s abortion ban.
- Three types of materials were cited in complaints opposing Proposition 1: signs, handouts and stickers.
Zoom Out
McGrane said political spending had increased significantly during the election cycle. He said federal campaign finance violations can lead to significant fines.
“It’s not about who or what a group supports or opposes, it is about allowing Idahoans the opportunity to know who is influencing their vote,” McGrane said.
What’s Next
McGrane encouraged people with questions about political advertising to contact the Secretary of State’s office.
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