Gem State Chronicle: Weekly Updates

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 4/5/26

Brian Almon — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 20:33:10 GMT

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” And they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.

Luke 24:1-9 ESV

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now. I’ve also been experimenting with AI-assisted podcasts narrating each of my articles. Check it out on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty, Money Metals, New Saint Andrews College, and just this week, the iLuvIdaho Voter Guide. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.
PS: Primary Pulse is back! Let this be your one-stop shop for information about every Republican legislative candidate as you decide not only for whom to cast your vote, but where to send your hard-earned money.

Over the last week I’ve been redesigning the homepage of the Gem State Chronicle. Instead of having to scroll to find op-eds and press releases, they’re conveniently located at the top via tabs. Make sure to check out Local Voices, a new section to feature (mostly) exclusive publications from the people of Idaho.

The past week at the Chronicle…

Only two articles this week, due to the hectic end to the legislative session. Learn more about the radiator cap maneuver that sent no tax dollars for teacher’s unions to the governor’s desk, as well as a recap of the final week of the session.

This week, I published newsletters from Attorney General Raul Labrador, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson, and op-eds from Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon and Mountain States Policy Center president Chris Cargill.

Whether we agree or disagree with our elected officials and influential political figures, I think it’s important to hear what they have to say, which is why I republish many op-eds and press releases. The Gem State Chronicle is a resource for as much information as possible to help you be more effective and engaged.

If you would like Gem State Chronicle to publish your work, please submit it to editor@gemstatechronicle.com. We are pleased to provide an outlet for a wide variety of figures in the world of Idaho politics to share their own messages.

With the homepage redesign creating much more space for content, I plan to add more newsletters, op-eds, and press releases from our elected officials, state agencies, and center-right political figures.

In other news…

YouTuber Shoe0nHead brought a unique perspective to the theological arguments surrounding the conflict in Iran:

Rufo & Lomez spoke with Lyman Stone about what has caused the decline in the American birthrate and what we can do to fix it. (I’m doing my part!)

Jake the Lawyer explained how the federal government slowly but surely usurped state sovereignty using one magic little phrase:

J Burden and Auron MacIntyre delved into why libertarianism is not a coherent political program:

Finally, the 80s were weird enough, but weird 80s pop stars thought Idaho was even stranger:

Upcoming events…

There are still a few events left on the Idaho GOP Lincoln Day schedule. Check out the master list at the state party website so you can find one near you.

The Ada County GOP is hosting free candidate forums next month—one for statewide candidates, and one for county candidates. Both will be at Boise High School.

Thank you all for your support as I continue to bring you news and analysis that empowers you to make positive change in Idaho. Make sure to subscribe, follow me on Twitter, and follow the Chronicle on Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, YouTube, and Rumble. Have a great week!

SUNDAY ROUNDUP: 3/29/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 02:40:35 GMT

Today is Palm Sunday, the traditional start of Holy Week in Christianity. Contrast the “No Kings” temper tantrum in which left-wing activists complained about President Trump exercising the powers and duties of his office with the reaction of the people of Jerusalem to the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ:

And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
Matthew 21:9 ESV

“Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” And some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.”
Luke 19:38-40 ESV

The American people hate the idea of a mortal king. Our ancestors gave their lives to ensure that their people were citizens of a republic, not subjects of a monarch. Yet through it all, we have always maintained that there is no king but Jesus.

Hosanna—Jesus Christ is king!

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now. I’ve also been experimenting with AI-assisted podcasts narrating each of my articles. Check it out on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.
PS: Primary Pulse is back! Let this be your one-stop shop for information about every Republican legislative candidate as you decide not only for whom to cast your vote, but where to send your hard-earned money.

The past week at the Chronicle…

I hope you’re finding Tim Oren’s regular column analyzing the makeup of the Legislature as interesting as I have. Stay tuned for a new post soon!
On Monday, I examined the illegal alien lobby in Idaho, which will seemingly stop at nothing to ensure that the Legislature does not stop their supply of cheap labor.
On Tuesday, I offered a modest proposal to solve the legislative impasse that once again plagues our lawmaking bodies.
On Friday, I shared an update on the final days of the legislative session.
On Saturday, I looked at the Idaho Child Care Program, and asked what it would take to finally wind it down.

I also published op-eds and newsletters from Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Congressman Mike Simpson, and KCRCC chairman Brent Regan.

In other news…

Idaho Signal, the daily program produced by Citizens Alliance of Idaho of which I’m proud to be a contributor, has gone from fewer than 2,000 subscribers in January to close to 10,000 now. People are tuning in for an unvarnished look at what our legislators are doing in Boise. Make sure you’re subscribed—the show has finished for the year but the clips that came out of this session will be invaluable for the upcoming elections.

Check out this clip from last week in which Sen. Glenneda Zuiderveld shares her experience of being targeted by Big Ag over her position on illegal immigration:

Author Hilary Layne explains how even fiction can alter your perception of the world:

Texas congressional nominee Brandon Herrera explains how your next firearm purchase might be a machine gun… from your state government:

Auron MacIntyre asks a provocative question: will AI replace the administrative state?

Finally, zippers are surprisingly interesting:

Upcoming events…

There are still a few events left on the Idaho GOP Lincoln Day schedule. Check out the master list at the state party website so you can find one near you.

The Ada County GOP is hosting free candidate forums next month—one for statewide candidates, and one for county candidates. Both will be at Boise High School.

SUNDAY ROUNDUP: 3/22/26

Brian Almon — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 21:43:49 GMT

It’s finally spring in the Treasure Valley of Idaho. While some of my friends in the mountains and the panhandle still have snow, we hit a record high of 84 degrees last week.

The legislative session is nearly done, which means the political world will transition immediately to the primary election campaigns. I’ll shift gears to covering those races—make sure you’ve bookmarked Primary Pulse for one-stop information about our Republican candidates for the Legislature.

I would be remiss not to take a moment to celebrate the twelfth anniversary of my wedding to Mrs. Kasha Almon. Fun fact: our first stop on the honeymoon was in Sandpoint, Idaho, even though we did not move here until four and a half years later. I think it was meant to be.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now. I’ve also been experimenting with AI-assisted podcasts narrating each of my articles. Check it out on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.
PS: Primary Pulse is back! Let this be your one-stop shop for information about every Republican legislative candidate as you decide not only for whom to cast your vote, but where to send your hard-earned money.

The past week at the Chronicle…

Tim Oren continued his analysis of voting patterns in the legislative session. I really appreciate his work, because it shows clearly who is aligned with whom without any subjective interpretations.

On Tuesday, I asked why Sen. Dan Foreman continues to hold a bill restricting taxpayer funds for teacher’s unions in his drawer.

On Thursday, I remembered Nampa mayor Rick Hogaboam following his untimely passing the night before. PS—his memorial service will be at the Ford Idaho Center on Monday, March 31.

On Friday, I examined Senate Bill 1300, which would move three state agency directors under the purview of the governor and the Senate. The debate over this bill reaches to the fundamental tenets of our republican system of government.

This week I published op-eds and newsletters from economist J.D. Foster, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Chris Cargill of Mountain States Policy Center, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Congressman Mike Simpson, as well as a letter from reader Todd Hoffman.

In other news…

Idaho Signal, the daily program produced by Citizens Alliance of Idaho of which I’m proud to be a contributor, has gone from fewer than 2,000 subscribers in January to close to 10,000 now. People are tuning in for an unvarnished look at what our legislators are doing in Boise. Make sure you’re subscribed—catch the show live at 11:30am MT each weekday, or watch replays or clips when you have the time.

Check out this clip in which host Matt Edwards spoke to Statesman Youth intern Jill Manley:

Max Bodach of the Foundation for American Innovation joined American Moment’s Nick Solheim to talk AI policy:

John Doyle examined the rise of outlandish conspiracy theories, and why he thinks they’ve been promoted on social media:

Finally, a piece of entertainment lore that you might have missed: Donald Trump singing the theme from Green Acres at the 2005 Emmy Awards:

Upcoming events…

There are still a few events left on the Idaho GOP Lincoln Day schedule. Check out the master list at the state party website so you can find one near you.

SUNDAY ROUNDUP: 3/15/26

Brian Almon — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 22:25:18 GMT

On this date more than two thousand years ago, Gaius Julius Caesar was stabbed to death by members of the Roman Senate. It’s impossible to know what would have happened had he lived longer, but there’s no question that his assassination changed the course of history. Octavian Augustus consolidated power, creating an empire whose legacy still echoes today.

I think back to July 13, 2024, when an assassin came within an inch of killing Donald Trump in front of not only thousands of people at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, but also millions more watching live. I think back to September 10, 2025, when an assassin murdered Charlie Kirk, the brightest star of the conservative movement, and how we may never fully know what we’ve lost in his absence.

The future is not yet written, and a single moment can change the course of history. The best we can do is keep fighting—every moment, every day—for what we believe in.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now. I’ve also been experimenting with AI-assisted podcasts narrating each of my articles. Check it out on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.
PS: Primary Pulse is back! Let this be your one-stop shop for information about every Republican legislative candidate as you decide not only for whom to cast your vote, but where to send your hard-earned money.

The past week at the Chronicle…

Tim Oren continued his statistical analysis of the Idaho Legislature. Factions are starting to come into focus as the House and Senate vote on important bills.
On Monday, I examined the situation with Boise State University, and took a closer look at the current interim president.
On Tuesday, I debunked a claim being spread by Democrats that Idaho government spending has been flat for the past two decades.
On Thursday, I took another look at the Idaho Child Care Program, which faces an uncertain future.
On Friday, I wrote about the $5.7 billion health and human services budget, which failed to pass the Senate last week.
Finally, on Saturday I explored the necessity of building political coalitions. None of us can succeed in this business by ourselves.

I also published op-eds and newsletters from Congressman Russ Fulcher, Nicholas Contos, Maxford Nelsen, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Idaho Signal, the daily program produced by Citizens Alliance of Idaho of which I’m proud to be a contributor, has gone from fewer than 2,000 subscribers in January to close to 10,000 now. People are tuning in for an unvarnished look at what our legislators are doing in Boise. Make sure you’re subscribed—catch the show live at 11:30am MT each weekday, or watch replays or clips when you have the time.

In this clip, Rep. Jason Monks explained his bill to allow for portable benefits for the gig economy:

Brandon Herrerra, YouTube’s AK Guy, has won the Texas congressional primary against the awful Congressman Tony Gonzalez:

Rufo & Lomez, still the most intelligent commentators on the right these days, discussed how to hold the Trump coalition together in these trying times:

Finally, Idaho’s own Pastor Doug Wilson looked at how one’s theology and eschatology informs one’s view of the conflict with Iran:

Upcoming events…

We’re about halfway through the Idaho GOP Lincoln Day schedule. Check out the master list at the state party website so you can find one near you.

SUNDAY ROUNDUP: 3/8/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:19:17 GMT

I had a great time at the Ada County GOP Lincoln Day Dinner on Saturday night. US Air Force Undersecretary Matthew Lohmeier gave a sharp and sobering speech to attendees, explaining how President Trump and Secretary of War Hegseth have transformed the US Armed Forces from a social justice experiment back into the elite warfighting organization it was meant to be.

Down the road, Minnesota governor Tim Walz spoke at the Idaho Democrats’ annual Frank and Bethine Church Gala. I can only imagine what he talked about. Under his watch, Minnesota has become known for promoting transgender surgeries for children, allowing abortion up until birth, and—of course—Somali daycares and NGOs that have potentially defrauded American taxpayers on the order of billions of dollars.

What a contrast, and what a reminder that elections matter.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now. I’ve also been experimenting with AI-assisted podcasts narrating each of my articles. Check it out on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.

The past week at the Chronicle…

Monday saw Tim Oren’s regular column mapping the Legislature. There have been enough votes now to see the expected factions begin to emerge.

Also on Monday, I shared a call to action to try to save two strong immigration enforcement bills that were sent to die in Senate State Affairs.

Savanna DeHay posted her monthly column on health and nutrition, taking a closer look at probiotics.

On Tuesday, I updated readers on the budgeting process, as the Rescissions Act hit the floors this week.

On Thursday, I examined the question of so-called predatory lending. Does government have a role in protecting people from their own choices?

Finally, on Friday I shared one more call to action. Tell Sen. Dan Foreman to hear H745, prohibiting taxpayer subsidies for teacher’s unions.

I also published op-eds and newsletters from Congressman Russ Fulcher, Sen. Ben Toews, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, legislative candidate Karey Hanks, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Sen. Jim Risch, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

Whether we agree or disagree with our elected officials and influential political figures, I think it’s important to hear what they have to say. The Gem State Chronicle is a resource for as much information as possible to help you be more effective and engaged.

PS: Primary Pulse is back! Let this be your one-stop shop for information about every Republican legislative candidate as you decide not only for whom to cast your vote, but where to send your hard-earned money.

In other news…

Wayne Hoffman posed an interesting question: is our ever-expanding welfare state a symptom of members of our society losing our compassion for our fellow man? Or is it a cause?

Peachy Keenan provided an insightful answer to the question of why President Trump chose to attack Iran at this time. It’s one I’ve been mulling over for the past week as well.

Sen. Brandon Shippy laid out his case for why E-Verify is government overreach. Michael Angiletta responded. Who do you think makes the more compelling case?

Logan Finny of Idaho Reports spoke with Secretary of State Phil McGrane about what to expect with this year’s primary elections:

Idaho’s own Niklas Kleinworth, now with Paragon Health in Washington DC, explained to Matt Edwards on Idaho Signal how the Medicaid money laundering system works:

Rufo & Lomez spoke with Jeremy Carl, whose nomination to serve in the Trump Administration is facing resistance from Democrats and even Republicans who are upset that Carl has called out anti-white racism:

Michael Knowles and John Doyle had an interesting and provocative conversation while playing a drinking game together:

Finally, Nick Solheim of American Moment spoke with Scott Kupor, director of the Office of Personnel Management, about why you should work for the government. It’s a subject I’ve written about before as well:

Upcoming events…

It’s Lincoln Day season. Check out the master list at the Idaho GOP website so you can find one near you.

Feature image courtesy of Daniel Murphy.

SUNDAY ROUNDUP: 3/1/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:16:04 GMT

Campaign season has officially begun. Filing for federal, statewide, and legislative offices closed on Friday, so—outside of any withdrawals—we know who is running for the May 19 GOP primary.

Check out VoteIdaho.gov to see the filings yourself. Republican candidates can submit a questionnaire to the Idaho GOP for its voter guide, while I am working on bringing back the Primary Pulse at the Gem State Chronicle with information that should be helpful as you prepare to vote.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now. I’ve also been experimenting with AI-assisted podcasts narrating each of my articles. Check it out on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, Tim Oren shared the latest from his project mapping legislators by how they vote.

On Tuesday, I wrote about the arrest of a Boise woman who attacked an ICE office with a stolen ambulance, and asked where this escalation of left-wing rhetoric will go.

On Thursday, I shared the story of two bills regarding short-term rental regulations that were heard in a Senate committee that day.

On Saturday, I looked at the list of candidates that filed for office and shared my instant reactions.

I also published op-eds and newsletters from Libertas’ Justan Rice, Brian Parsons, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Sen. Mike Crapo, Congressman Mike Simpson, and KCRCC chairman Brent Regan.

In other news…

Logan Finney of Idaho Reports sat down with Speaker Mike Moyle, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, and some Democrats to talk budgets:

Rufo & Lomez spoke with Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon about rooting out DEI from the Justice Department and America:

John Doyle was inspired by President Trump’s State of the Union Address:

If you’re into technology at all, you might find this interesting. A hacker attempted to use his access to the .xz compression application embedded in Linux to gain access to some of the most sensitive systems in the world:

Upcoming events…

It’s Lincoln Day season. Check out the master list at the Idaho GOP website so you can find one near you.

Feature image created with Microsoft Copilot.

SUNDAY ROUNDUP: 2/22/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 02:16:17 GMT

The Gem State Chronicle is going on assignment. I’ll be traveling for a few days, meeting people and speaking to some groups about getting more involved in local politics. Posting might be sporadic, but I’ll be back before long with the news you need to stay engaged.

Make sure to follow the Chronicle on Twitter, where I post live threads of committee hearings as well as previews of the next day’s agendas.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Tuesday, I examined the concept of the law, and why it is so important to ensure that our laws remain rooted in the ancient traditions of our ancestors.

On Thursday, I focused on the issue of illegal immigration, and explained why the left has chosen to fight and die on this hill.

On Saturday, I urged readers to approach politics from a dispassionate perspective, not allowing emotions to get the better of us.

I was happy to publish op-eds and newsletters this week from Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, former legislator and current candidate Karey Hanks, former solicitor general Alan Hurst, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Sen. Jim Risch, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Matt Edwards, who hosts Idaho Signal every weekday, made the trek to Boise to explain how campaigns are won:

JFAC co-chairs Sen. Scott Grow and Rep. Josh Tanner explained what’s going on with the budget this year:

Jesse Kelly joined Michael Malice for a wild ride of an interview:

Rufo & Lomez discussed the Nick Fuentes phenomenon, and how he is being used by the left to weaken the right:

Shoe0nHead reacted to an attempted cancellation of a nonpolitical streamer by the militant left:

Finally, Wade Stotts joined Nick Solheim to discuss the decline of late night comedy and what it means for American culture:

Upcoming events…

It’s Lincoln Day season. Check out the master list at the Idaho GOP website so you can find one near you. The Ada County event is sold out, but if you’re looking for something to do on March 7 I suppose you could go see Minnesota governor Tim Walz at the Democrats’ event.

The Syringa Speaker Series is hosting Liz Wheeler, Chloe Cole, and Joe Concha this coming Saturday, February 28 for its 2026 gala. Check it out here. I’m working with Syringa to promote this event so do me a favor and buy a ticket or ten.

Feature image created with Microsoft Copilot.

SUNDAY ROUNDUP: 2/15/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:09:30 GMT

“Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” sang Tears for Fears more than 40 years ago, and I think they were onto something. Some people want to rule over their fellow man, while others want the power to be left alone. Either way, most of us want to see the world be ordered in a certain way. We each carry our own vision of what that looks like, which makes building political coalitions no small task.

The more I learn about how politics works, the less inclined I am to try to change anyone else. People are what they are, and my opinion doesn’t matter a hill of beans. That’s why I try to focus on ideas rather than personalities. People come and go, but ideas, principles, and policies are what really matter. I’ll take people as they are—supporting them when they do what I believe is right and calling them out when they do what I believe is wrong—without making it personal. I don’t much care who gets the credit, so long as good things happen in the political arena.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Tuesday, I looked at how the lines between individuals and the government have become blurry, and what we can do to fix it.

On Wednesday, I used yet another football analogy to explain why I believe slow and steady progress is better than risking it all on every play.

On Thursday, I explained how one state senator wants to reduce the amount of money available for the Parental Choice Tax Credit, and why I believe that’s a misguided idea.

On Saturday, I took readers on a deep dive into Idaho’s budget, asking why a 5% cut has some lawmakers so concerned.

Have you seen Tim Oren’s column on mapping the legislative session? By tracking who votes with whom, Oren shows—without subjective ratings—the various factions in the Legislature.

I also published op-eds and newsletters by Chris Cargill of Mountain States Policy Center, Secure Idaho, Sen. Jim Risch, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

I also presented the debut op-ed in the Gem State Chronicle by Horace Cooper, who argues that a potential change regarding the postal service could impact rural Idahoans.

One more thing—make sure to follow the Gem State Chronicle on X where I preview tomorrow in the Legislature every evening. See what bills are before which committees, and what to expect from the House and Senate floors.

In other news…

Josiah Lippincott says that falling home prices are a good thing:

Regime Critic

Falling House Prices are Good for Everyone, even Homeowners

In a cabinet meeting on January 29, President Trump told assembled journalists that he wanted to keep housing prices high: “I don’t want to drive housing prices down. I want to drive housing prices up for people that own their homes, and they can be assured that’s what’s going to happen…

2 months ago · 21 likes · 6 comments · Josiah Lippincott

Chris Cargill from Mountain States Policy Center is concerned about unintended consequences of House Bill 542, meant to protect children from addictive social media algorithms.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio gave a terrific speech to European leaders at the Munich Security Conference:

Melissa Davlin of Idaho Reports spoke to JFAC co-chairs Scott Grow and Josh Tanner along with Reps. Rod Furniss and Brooke Green about this year’s budget cuts:

Bryan Hyde discussed some of my articles on Nowhere to Hyde this week:

Jake the Lawyer posted a great explanation of the national debt:

Idaho’s own Pastor Joe Rigney explained how the left conquered Minnesota, and what tactics they are using to take over the rest of the country:

Upcoming events…

The Syringa Speaker Series is hosting Liz Wheeler, Chloe Cole, and Joe Concha on Saturday, February 28 for its 2026 gala. Check it out here. I’m working with Syringa to promote this event so do me a favor and buy a ticket or ten.

Feature image created with Microsoft Copilot.

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 2/8/26

Brian Almon — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 21:55:14 GMT

It is February of 2015, and I’m preparing to watch the Seattle Seahawks face the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl. I currently work for the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, and have just welcomed a new baby girl, my first child.

It is February of 2026, and I’m preparing to watch the Seattle Seahawks face the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl. I currently work for myself in the world of Idaho politics, and my wife and I are looking ahead to our sixth child.

Time certainly flies, and while many things have changed, some things remain the same. Hopefully the outcome of today’s game is different than it was eleven years ago.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, I looked at legislation aimed to prevent situations like the one targeting Jack Phillips in which LGBTQ+ activists can make life miserable for small business owners using non-discrimination ordinances.

On Tuesday, I asked why proponents of an Article V Convention say they’re trying to threaten Congress into taking action on priorities such as a balanced budget and term limits.

On Wednesday, I checked in on two bills dealing with E-Verify in Idaho.

On Thursday, I recapped a hearing on the Blaine Amendment—a piece of our Constitution that’s already been ruled as violating the Free Exercise Clause of the federal Constitution.

On Friday, health and nutrition columnist Savanna DeHay discussed hair care, something I am not very familiar with at all.

On Saturday, I looked at the state of the 2026 Republican primaries, and posted an interview with Secretary of State Phil McGrane.

This week, I published op-eds and newsletters from Sen. Jim Risch, Idaho GOP Chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Secretary McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Did you catch my chat with the Secretary of State? It’s pretty short—I hope to schedule another conversation to ask some more questions about the state of elections in Idaho.

Are you catching Idaho Signal, a production of Citizens Alliance of Idaho? Watch Matt Edwards, along with me and a variety of guests, break down the action in the Legislature as it happens every weekday at 11:30am MT. Here’s a clip where we discuss what happened in JFAC on Friday morning:

Idaho Freedom Foundation hosted Maxford Nelsen of the Freedom Foundation (no relation) to discuss his organization’s fight against the radical teacher’s unions, and what it means for Idaho:

Rufo and Lomez continue to deliver the smartest content on the internet. In their most recent episode, they broke down the Epstein files, looking beyond the headlines and the hysteria to ask what they really mean:

Speaking of the Epstein files, John Doyle examined them as well and explained what they mean, and what they don’t:

Over at American Moment, Nick Solheim and Nathan Pinkoski discuss a fifty year old French novel that seemingly predicted the challenge facing western civilization today with regard to mass migration:

Back to Rufo and Lomez, who discussed how the left uses street protests to further its goal of American regime change. Keep all this in mind as you watch the various protests in Idaho this year:

Upcoming events…

It’s Lincoln Day season. Check out the master list at the Idaho GOP website so you can find one near you. I had a great time at the Gem County Lincoln Day Dinner last night, hearing from Idaho’s own Alex Adams and conversing with many great people. Idaho County also had their dinner last night.

But Lincoln Day season is just getting started. Owyhee, Jerome, Blaine, Goodling, Lincoln, Twin Falls, Bear Lake, Caribou, Elmore, Franklin, and Kootenai Counties are hosting Lincoln Days this month as well, with many more in March and April. Buy your tickets soon!

Feature image created with Microsoft Copilot.

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 2/1/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:29:39 GMT

What a week. My car gave up its ghost on Monday, and by Wednesday I had upgraded to something slightly newer with a few thousand fewer miles. It needed a bit of work—new air filters, new turn signal bulbs, scraping off some rust—but it seems like it will get me where I need to go for another year or three.

In Merle Haggard’s 1981 song “Are the Good Times Really Over” he wishes “a Ford and a Chevy would still last ten years, like they should.” We tend to think that things in the past were higher quality, perhaps from survivorship bias, but there’s a lot to be thankful for in the 21st century. I put the final 18,000 miles (out of 263,000) on a 20-year-old Nissan, even taking it on road trips to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello in the past year. I couldn’t ask for much more.

Maybe the good times aren’t over just yet.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, I asked a simple question: who is “we the people”?

On Tuesday, I took another look at what Idaho has done to return lawmaking power to the Legislature, and what we should do next.

On Wednesday, I expressed my concern with Gov. Brad Little’s appointee for the Idaho Human Rights Commission. Estalla Zamora’s social media showed her to be an anti-ICE zealot who considers Trump supporters racists and cowards.

On Saturday, I shared the news that her nomination had been quashed by the Senate, and urged readers to continue talking to their elected officials.

Meanwhile, on Friday I peeked behind the curtain into the world of cosmetology licensure, and asked some questions about how involved government should be in the marketplace.

I also published op-eds and newsletters from Congressman Russ Fulcher, Maxford Nelson, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Sen. Jim Risch, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Idaho Freedom Foundation hosted Emily Naugle, president of Right to Life Idaho, to discuss the state of the pro-life movement today:

Auron MacIntyre and some guests discussed why self-proclaimed libertarians have such a massive blind spot for the problems of mass migration:

Jared Henderson asked why the world seems to fake these days:

Michael Malice had a fascinating conversation with Mike Cernovich, one of the veterans of the new right:

John Doyle examined questions related to Palantir, Peter Thiel, and Vice President J.D. Vance. Is there a conspiracy to destroy America? Or are these the good guys?

Rufo and Lomez had an interesting conversation about where the left goes from here, after having gone all-in on wokeness:

Upcoming events…

It’s Lincoln Day season. I’m putting together a page with all the Idaho GOP Lincoln Day luncheons and dinners, so check it out to find one near you. Last I heard there were only a couple dozen tickets left for the Gem County Lincoln Day Dinner on February 7, featuring none other than Alex Adams. I bought mine!

Idaho, Owyhee, Jeome, Blaine, Goodling, Lincoln, Twin Falls, Bear Lake, Caribou, Elmore, Franklin, and Kootenai Counties are hosting Lincoln Days this month as well, with many more in March and April. Buy your tickets soon!

WEEKEND ROUNDUP 1/25/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:29:47 GMT

The legislative session is a busy time. I’m just a guy watching it all play out on the outside, and even so I’ve found myself worn out at the end of each day. After multiple in-depth articles and daily appearances on Idaho Signal, I ended up not going live on Friday nights with the Gem State Report. I’ve been pondering ideas, such as moving it elsewhere in the week or producing smaller programs.

What do you think?

Remember that you can now access the Gem State Chronicle as a web app. Follow the instructions here and bring not only articles, op-eds, and press releases to your fingertips, but also the powerful tools of Idaho Insider.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts. Subscribe now
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
I added Instagram to the Chronicle’s social media footprint, so follow me there if that’s your jam. I’ll try to post more there going forward.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, I examined the bicameral legislature, the system of having both a Senate and a House of Representatives.

On Tuesday, I looked at how both the governor and the Legislature intend to continue the process of cleaning up our state code.

On Thursday, I asked why we continue to fund and maintain a special commission for a single ethnic group in Idaho.

On Friday, I reported on the oral arguments in the Parental Choice Tax Credit case.

I also published op-eds and newsletters this week from Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Sen. Jim Risch, Congressman Mike Simpson, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Sen. Mike Crapo, Mountain States Policy Center president Chris Cargill, and one more from Congressman Simpson.

In other news…

Lilly Allman of In the Know Idaho joined Caleb Cook on the Gem State Brief:

Logan Finney of Idaho Reports spoke to Republican Assistant Majority Leader Douglas Pickett and Democratic Minority Caucus Chair Monica Church about the new session:

Jake the Lawyer explained the law behind immigration enforcement:

Rufo and Lomez discussed the rise of antisemitism and asked if there is a way to discuss issues related to Israel and the Jewish people without violating taboos:

Nick Solheim of American Moment sat down with Michael Green for a close look at what poverty means in America today:

Upcoming events…

The Idaho GOP is hosting a discussion on the idea of an Article V Convention with JBS’ Robert Brown on Tuesday at 3:30pm in the Lincoln Auditorium. Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida came to Idaho making the case for such a convention to propose a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution; come hear another perspective.

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 1/18/26

Brian Almon — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 18:06:05 GMT

Scott Adams died this week. During the 1990s and 2000s, Adams was one of the best cartoonists in America, as his Dilbert comic strip captured the amusement and frustration of workplaces throughout the country. There were few offices that didn’t have Dilbert strips pinned to cubicle walls.

I’ve read this was one of Adams’ personal favorites.

Good advice.

We all know people like this.

Standing still is sometimes the best option.

I feel this.

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

One of Adams’ brilliant ideas was to put his email address on the comic strip, inviting readers to submit their workplace anecdotes, keeping the strip relevant despite Adams himself leaving the corporate world long ago.

Perhaps Scott Adams’ best contributions to society was popularizing the concept of framing. He was one of the first to predict that Donald Trump would win the 2016 election because he saw him through a frame of persuasion, rather than regular politics. His support of Trump cost him friends and influence in the world of media, and when he made statements in 2023 that were deemed racist, newspapers dropped the strip. Yet Adams soldiered on, inviting readers to join him for a “simultaneous sip” of coffee, tea, or other morning beverage.

Just prior to the 2016 election, Adams published How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big, a book which had significant impact on the trajectory of my life. Adams explained how trying and failing was beneficial in that it added to your “talent stack” which you could then apply to future endeavors. For him, a failed career in business set the stage for a successful career as a cartoonist.

Adams also promoted the idea of systems instead of goals. For example, rather than setting a goal to lose weight, he suggested having a system in which you go to the gym every day after work. Such a system will eventually bring about the goal you want, without the guilt and disappointment that come from inevitable failure.

Adams was a lifelong atheist, or at least agnostic. He talked about Simulation Theory, the idea that we exist within a computer program. Yet he seemed open to the idea of Christianity as well. He made a statement from his deathbed announcing his conversion in a Pascal’s Wager sort of way. It’s not for me to decide how genuine such a thing is—remember that “man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

Rest in glory.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.Subscribe now
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
I added Instagram to the Chronicle’s social media footprint, so follow me there if that’s your jam.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, I reported on the opening day of the 2026 legislative session.

On Tuesday, I published the first of what will be a regular column by Tim Oren, about using statistics to map legislative factions as the session progresses.

Later that day, I took a look at the nascent budget battle growing between. Gov. Brad Little and JFAC co-chair Rep. Josh Tanner.

On Wednesday, I explained how to install the Gem State Chronicle on your smartphone as a web app. Try it today!

On Thursday, I explained how JFAC prepares budget bills for the Legislature, and summarized its work in the first week.

Finally, on Friday I showed how allowing politics to become personal can prevent you from achieving your policy goals.

I published several op-eds and newsletters this week, including two from Sen. Jim Risch here and here. Also check out posts from Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, Mountain States Policy Center president Chris Cargill, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Just before the session started I sat down for an in-depth conversation with Caleb Cook of the Gem State Brief. Check it out, and check out their work as well:

I am once again proud to be a contributing editor to Idaho Signal, a production of Citizen’s Alliance of Idaho. Catch the show live weekdays at 11:30am MT. Here was Wednesday’s show, featuring me, IFF’s Fred Birnbaum, and IFPC’s Blaine Conzatti:

Logan Finney of broke down the week that was and spoke with newly-elected caucus leaders Reps. Douglas Pickett and Monica Church on Idaho Reports:

Finney also spoke with Sen. Ben Adams about his ideas for protecting Idaho’s public lands:

Russ Greene joined Nick Solheim of American Moment to discuss what might be a taboo subject: how our current system of taxes and subsidies takes money from the young to support the old.

In another life, Scott Bessent helped make George Soros rich. Now he’s President Trump’s Treasury Secretary. What can we make of that? Rufo and Lomez break it down:

Finally, the one and only Razorfist paid tribute to the late Scott Adams:

Upcoming events…

Feature image by Lea Suzuki/The San Francisco Chronicle, via Getty Images

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 1/11/26

Brian Almon — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 01:20:50 GMT

I had a great time seeing many of you at the Idaho GOP Winter Meeting and gala. It’s always fun to get so many people from the same world into the same room. Tomorrow’s opening of the 2026 legislative session will have a similar feel, sort of like the first day of school following summer holiday.

Tomorrow is also my 43rd birthday. With only a few hours left of age 42, I have yet to discover the answer to life, the universe, and everything. Oh well. Idaho was the 43rd state admitted to the union, so perhaps this next year will have special meaning as I continue to learn about Idaho and work to maintain her values for my children and their children yet to come.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Subscribe now
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
I added Instagram to the Chronicle’s social media footprint, so follow me there if that’s your jam.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Tuesday, I took a close look at the administrative costs that the Dept. of Health & Welfare endures to qualify for federal grant money. It’s not exactly “free money”, as it turns out.

On Wednesday, I wrote about the dangers of excessive hyperbole in political rhetoric. If you’re constantly warning that the sky is falling, voters will eventually tune you out.

On Thursday, I looked back at Idaho’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, which will see oral arguments at the Supreme Court of the United States this coming week.

Finally, yesterday I caught you up on the 2026 Idaho GOP Winter Meeting.

I also published op-eds and newsletters by Sen. Jim Risch, Idaho State Board of Education executive director Jennifer White, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Summer Bushnell has been examining daycare subsidies in North Idaho. Check out her latest report.

Rep. David Leavitt wrote about how trade associations that few voters have ever heard of have significant influence on government policies.

Hilary Layne is not a fan of AI:

Logan Finney from Idaho Public TV spoke to Alex Adams, who is doing great work in his new federal position:

Finney’s colleague Melissa Davlin talked with Wendy Horman, who has now departed the Legislature to join Adams in the Administration for Children and Families:

John Doyle took a sledgehammer to the idea that conservatives can win by losing:

Jake the Lawyer explained why the District of Columbia is not (and should not be) a state:

Rufo and Lomez discussed the aftermath of the Minnesota welfare fraud scandal:

Christopher Rufo later spoke with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about how the government will investigate the scandal:

Upcoming events…

It’s Lincoln Day season. I’m putting together a page with all the Idaho GOP Lincoln Day luncheons and dinners, so check it out to find one near you.

The Syringa Speaker Series is hosting Liz Wheeler, Chloe Cole, and Joe Concha on Saturday, February 28 for its 2026 gala. Check it out here.

Feature image created with Microsoft Copilot.

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 1/4/26

Brian Almon — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 23:00:16 GMT

It’s a new year, the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the independence of the United States of America, the two hundred and fiftieth. We enter the second quarter of the 21st century, a time of turmoil, a time of opportunity.

By this point in the 20th century, the world had already experienced the invention of the airplane, assembly line, and radio. RMS Titanic had been built, launched, and sunk. The Great War had started, and ended. Calvin Coolidge was in the White House, and the Great Depression was still over the horizon. F. Scott Fitzgerald had just published The Great Gatsby.

Consider how far we’ve come in our own century. This September will be the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Our twenty-year military adventure in Afghanistan came and went in this century. We’ve seen the invention of the iPhone, widespread adoption of social media, and the rise of AI. Self-driving cars are a reality.

The Zoomers coming of age never experienced the 20th century, and only know our world as it is now, just as the young people of the 1920s never knew the reality of the Gilded Age.

Time marches on.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
I added Instagram to the Chronicle’s social media footprint, so follow me there if that’s your jam.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, I raised some questions about how childcare subsidies are being disbursed in Idaho.

I followed that up on Tuesday with a closer look at the system that enables potential fraud.

On New Year’s Eve, I looked back at the how the Gem State Chronicle has grown over the last year.

On Thursday, I dived deeper into the childcare subsidy system, asking what comes next.

On Saturday, I reacted to the successful mission to capture Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela, explaining the historical context behind it.

I also published Savanna DeHay’s monthly wellness column. Check out six habits to start your new year strong!

Additionally, I published guest op-eds and newsletters by Sen. Jim Risch, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Idaho GOP chair Dorothy Moon, KCRCC chair Brent Regan, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Did you catch the Gem State Report last Friday? I discussed the ongoing scandals regarding childcare subsidies. It’s a good primer if you’ve missed any of the news.

Over at Local Yocal Idaho, Tyler interviewed Robert Netzly of Inspire Investing, whose activism convinced Costco to refrain from selling abortion drugs:

Nick Freitas sat down with Michael Knowles to discuss where the conservative movement fits in the framework of the history of America and the idea of liberal democracy:

Rufo and Lomez interviewed an expert on Antifa to learn more about how it operates and why it’s been so hard to shut down:

Michael Malice spoke with Michael Tracey, who has done a tremendous amount of research into the Epstein files. Prepare to entertain ideas that run contrary to the conventional narrative:

Upcoming events…

The Idaho GOP Winter Meeting is next weekend. Check out the website for more details. Guests are welcome! You’re invited to buy tickets for the Chairwoman’s Luncheon and the Winter Western Gala as well.

District 14’s legislative delegation will be taking part in a forum in Emmett tomorrow evening:

I hope to see you at the Winter Meeting, or the opening day of the session on the following Monday.

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 12/28/25

Brian Almon — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 21:43:21 GMT

In modern American culture, Christmas begins earlier and earlier each year. Department stores put out their merchandise and decorations as early as October or even September, and the season begins in earnest after Thanksgiving. Celebrations are over by the afternoon of Christmas Day.

This is opposite of western Christian tradition, in which Christmastide begins on December 25 and continues for twelve days, until Epiphany on January 6. Each day focused on a different aspect of the Nativity story. Jack Montgomery has been writing about each days over at the National Pulse, including today’s Feast of the Holy Family.

It’s a reminder to slow down, to contemplate the ideas behind the things we do, and refocus ourselves on what is important in life.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
I’ve relaunched the Merch Store with a couple of new branded items. Let me know if you have any ideas for items you’d like to see made available.
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
I added Instagram to the Chronicle’s social media footprint, so follow me there if that’s your jam.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Wednesday, Christmas Eve, I explained that Jesus really is the reason for the season.

On Friday, I looked at what declining enrollment numbers in K-12 public schools mean for budgets and policies going forward.

On Saturday, I mused on how we can adjust our strategies to changing times while holding on to timeless principles.

I published op-eds and newsletters from Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Tim Oren, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Darcy Lammers.

In other news…

Tim Oren’s op-ed this week presented more analysis of the way in which legislators vote together, and what it reveals not only about factions in the Legislature, but which scorecards do a good job of mapping those things. Make sure to check it out.

Josiah Lippincott has a simple request: stop giving liberals our tax money. With more news breaking each day regarding the Somali daycare scam in Minnesota, it’s imperative to reform the systems that have allowed the left to funnel tax dollars to their own constituent groups.

Speaking of daycare fraud, independent journalist Nick Shirley visited numerous firms in Minnesota that have received federal funds, only to find that they are likely all fake:

Is this happening in Idaho?

Speaking of things that are wrong and disturbing on multiple levels, Shoe0nHead dived into the world of teen dating apps:

Finally, Derek Muller of Veritasium shared the history of his platform, and how he was able to hand off much of the day-to-day operations in order to have time for his family. It seems to be a path worth following:

Don’t forget that the Idaho GOP Winter Meeting is January 9 and 10 in Meridian, followed by the opening of the 2026 session on Monday, January 12. I’ll see you there!

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 12/21/25

Brian Almon — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 19:25:59 GMT

Today is the fourth and final Sunday of Advent, the last preparations before Christians celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is also the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, with less than nine hours of daylight in the Treasure Valley of Idaho. Both celebrations bring a hint of anticipation—we await the birth of Christ in the manger, and even the first day of winter brings with it the promise of spring to come.

Our God, heaven cannot hold him,
nor earth sustain;
heaven and earth shall flee away
when he comes to reign:
in the bleak midwinter
a stable place sufficed
the Lord God Almighty,
Jesus Christ.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
I’ve relaunched the Merch Store with a couple of new branded items. Let me know if you have any ideas for items you’d like to see made available.
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
I added Instagram to the Chronicle’s social media footprint, so follow me there if that’s your jam.

The past week at the Chronicle…

Friday’s episode of the Gem State Report featured chats with Katherine Hartley of the Pacific Justice Institute and Matt Edwards of Citizens Alliance of Idaho. Check it out:

The big news this week was Rep. Wendy Horman’s announcement that she would step down on January 5 to take a position in the Trump Administration. That makes three House committee chairs to depart prior to the 2026 session.

On Tuesday, I wrote a long essay on the topic of literacy instruction, and what was behind an appropriation of $5 million that passed the Legislature earlier this year.

On Wednesday, I examined how the cancellation of a federal grant shows the way in which nonprofits have become dependent on tax dollars.

On Friday, I recapped the final meeting of the DOGE Task Force. Did it accomplish what it set out to do?

I also published guest op-eds and newsletters from Rebecca Falcon, Maxford Nelson, Congressman Russ Fulcher, Idaho GOP chair Dorothy Moon, Sen. Mike Crapo, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Videos:

Michael Malice sat down with political reporter Mark Halperin, who shared the inside story of how President Joe Biden was pushed aside for Kamala Harris:

The political world was rocked this week by an article in Compact Magazine laying out exactly how our society has discriminated against white men over the past decade or more. Jeremy Carl literally wrote the book on the subject (I have a signed copy!) and he joined Auron MacIntyre to discuss it:

Rufo and Lomez, perhaps the two smartest people in the conservative movement today, discussed the same article and what it means going forward:

Finally, Jake the Lawyer explained what the Bill of Rights means in ordinary English:

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 12/14/25

Brian Almon — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:37:42 GMT

Hello to all the new subscribers. Thank you for joining me on this journey to elevate the political discourse and empower more citizens to take an active role in their government. Each weekend I post a “roundup” of my articles, guest pieces at the Gem State Chronicle, and the most interesting things I’ve come across in the past week that help shape my understanding of this moment in history.

If you’d like to just receive the weekly updates, click here to manage your subscription.

I’m glad you’re here. I’ll do my best to share what’s going on in the political process, bringing you as much actionable information as I can. The 2026 session begins on January 12!

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
I’ve relaunched the Merch Store with a couple of new branded items. Let me know if you have any ideas for items you’d like to see made available.
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.
I added Instagram to the Chronicle’s social media footprint, so follow me there if that’s your jam.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On this week’s Gem State Report, I spoke with Fred Birnbaum and Brett Farruggia of Idaho Freedom Foundation about their proposed conservative budget:

This week, I announced that Reps. Jordan Redman and Barbara Ehardt were the 2025 Statesman and Stateswoman of the Year. I believe that both exhibit all the qualities we want to see in our elected officials.
Also this week, I unveiled Scorecard Explorer, a new way of presenting data about our elected lawmakers.
Finally, I examined the Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry, or IACI, which claims to be the voice of Idaho’s business community. But does it represent conservative values?

I also published op-eds and newsletters from Matt Edwards and Katherine Hartley, KCRCC chair Brent Regan, Sen. Jim Risch, Idaho GOP chair Dorothy Moon, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

The Hill published another of my articles. This time, I examined how the immigration debate in Idaho reveals a rift in the Republican Party:

Although Idaho is more than 600 miles from the southern border, immigration is one of the state’s most volatile political issues. Two out of three Idaho voters backed Trump in 2024, yet powerful interest groups in the state continue to push for maintaining, and even expanding, the flow of both legal and illegal foreign labor.

Substack:

Wayne Hoffman predicted that lawmakers will try to balance the budget using taxes on vaping, figuring few will oppose them.
Sen. Brian Lenney visited the southern border and reported his findings.
Pseudonymous writer Conundrum Cluster says changing the federal classification of marijuana would be a mistake.
Radio host Bill Colley cautioned against letting politics destroy your relationships.

Videos:

Bryan Hyde, host of IFF’s Nowhere to Hyde program, looked at IACI’s influence on Idaho politics:

John Doyle explained how mass migration has become a doctrine of the left-wing religion:

Rufo and Lomez brought their usual down-to-earth perspective to the sideshow that is conservative influencers:

Matt Walsh shared with Tucker Carlson how he stays out of such sideshows:

Finally, Veritasium continued its deep dive into quantum mechanics with the story of the discovery of antimatter:

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 12/7/25

Brian Almon — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 19:54:18 GMT

Sunday, December 7, 1941, a date which will live in infamy. 84 years ago today, Japan attacked the American naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing more than 2,400 sailors, soldiers, Marines, and civilians, and bringing the United States into the Second World War.

The American people would quickly mobilize to, as President Franklin Roosevelt declared the next day, achieve absolute victory through their righteous might. Our nation, and the world, was never the same. Yet those momentous world-altering events should never overshadow the individuals who lost their lives that day, and the families who carried on without them.

Never forget.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
I’ve relaunched the Merch Store with a couple of new branded items. Let me know if you have any ideas for items you’d like to see made available.
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.

The past week at the Chronicle…

Did you catch the Gem State Report? I brought my Friday night live show back as we get closer to the 2026 legislative session. Last week I spoke with Rep. Jeff Ehlers about the work of the DOGE Task Force, Sen. Scott Grow about the budget, and Ryan Spoon about why he got free beer from Old State Saloon:

On Monday, I wrote about the political machine that kicked into gear to ensure that Lisa Burtenshaw won the Idaho Falls mayoral runoff.

On Wednesday, I looked back at that election, as well as the special election in Tennessee, to see what Republicans need to learn.

On Friday, I explained why I do what I do—trying to bring focus to the signal amidst the noise.

I also published regular columnist Savanna DeHay’s guide to getting over the flu. Being politically engaged is that much harder when you’re sick!

I also published op-eds and newsletters by Sen. Jim Risch, Idaho GOP chair Dorothy Moon, KCRCC chair Brent Regan, Tim Oren, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

Make sure also to check out the numerous press releases issued by political figures throughout Idaho.

In other news…

Substack:

Sen. Brian Lenney continued his crusade against voter affidavits in place of showing ID at the polls.
Wayne Hoffman said that think tanks need to be stronger in calling out the failures of the public school system.
Sen. Glenneda Zuiderveld shined a light on how urban renewal districts shift your property tax dollars.
Author Aaron Renn explained why he believes abolishing property taxes is a bad idea.
Gem State Chronicle sponsor Money Metals wrote about why the high price of silver might not be a bubble this time.
Josiah Lippincott says that a 50-year mortgage is a bad idea.
Anonymous writer Conundrum Cluster suggests we should bring back the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Videos:

New YouTuber Jake the Lawyer explains the decisions behind Ford’s reaction to the way in which their Pinto cars tended to explode:

One of my favorite new follows, author Hilary Layne, explains how concepts from fanfiction have infected literature today:

Rufo and Lomez returned for a dive into the Somali fraud scandal, in which Minnesota taxpayers saw their cash being funneled to terrorist groups in Africa:

John Doyle discussed the targeting of alleged narcoterrorists from Venezuela:

Upcoming events:

Idaho Freedom Foundation will present what it calls a conservative budget plan tomorrow afternoon at the Capitol:

Thank you all for your support as I continue to bring you news and analysis that empowers you to make positive change in Idaho. Make sure to subscribe, follow me on Twitter, and follow the Chronicle on Facebook, Telegram, YouTube, and Rumble. Have a great rest of your weekend!

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 11/30/25

Brian Almon — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 17:27:29 GMT

With that, the leftover turkey and cranberry sauce is gone, family has headed home, and we arrive on the eve of December. For some reason, my thoughts often turn to the 1930s and 40s at this time of year—probably because of the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7. I listen to the music of the era, read about the historical events, and think about how my great-grandparents’ generation lived.

What a time of transformation that was. My great-grandparents were born into a world where telephones and automobiles were novelties of the rich, where farm boy chores included hand-pumping buckets of water. By the time they reached my age, most houses had running water, electricity, phone lines, and everyone drove a car.

That generation saw two world wars sandwiched around the Great Depression. In 1945 they saw the power of the atom, and just a few decades later they would watch a man walk on the moon.

We still live in the world that was created back then, a world created by the decisions made by men such as Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman, and Dwight Eisenhower. I believe that era is coming to a close, and the decisions made today will impact the lives of our own great-grandchildren. What are you doing today that will echo for the next century?

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
I’ve relaunched the Merch Store with a couple of new branded items. Let me know if you have any ideas for items you’d like to see made available.
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, I shared updates to three different developing stories that I have been keeping an eye on.

On Tuesday, I took a close look at how the ideology of our public school system is enabling exploitation of children.

On Wednesday, I exposed the many heads of Jannus, Inc., an NGO that is using our tax dollars to reshape our society.

On Thursday, I enjoyed Thanksgiving with family. I hope your holiday was great!

On Friday, I shared some musings about the nature of citizen government, and how it’s not enough to demand someone just do something.

I also published op-eds by Brian Parsons, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Congressman Mike Simpson, and KCRCC chairman Brent Regan.

In other news…

Substack:

Steve Sailer had some interesting thoughts (as usual) about the late playwright Sir Tom Stoppard.
Mike Maherry did some research on the term “Black Friday” for Money Metals. (Thanks again to Money Metals for sponsoring the Gem State Chronicle!)
Peachy Keenan took a look at the growing fertility crisis in the younger generations.
Michael Green wrote a fascinating post on the true definition of poverty. I’m still mulling over this one.

Videos:

American Moment’s Nick Solheim spoke with Ian Fletcher about free trade and tariffs. Insightful discussion:

YouTuber Shoe0nHead still considers herself a faithful liberal, but one who is disenchanted with the left. Yet her critique of Republicans is worth considering:

Rufo and Lomez took a look at the crisis of masculinity among the younger generations, and asked how how can save young men from going down either the road of effete stoners like Seth Rogen or exaggerated LARPers like Andrew Tate:

John Doyle discussed the true meaning of Thanksgiving with Auron MacIntyre:

Finally, Jared Henderson looked at the growing dystopianism of AI, and what we can do to maintain our humanity:

Thank you all for your support as I continue to bring you news and analysis that empowers you to make positive change in Idaho. Make sure to subscribe, follow me on Twitter, and follow the Chronicle on Facebook, Telegram, YouTube, and Rumble. Have a great rest of your weekend, and head into December with confidence!

WEEKEND ROUNDUP: 11/23/25

Brian Almon — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 18:16:05 GMT

I believe that the so-called Serenity Prayer is central to any human endeavor:

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

The true cost of anything, whether time, energy, or capital, is the opportunity to have done something else. Every moment we spend following national stories that are completely out of our control is a moment we could have put toward actually changing things in our own state and communities.

That’s not to say we should never take a break from political work—goodness knows we all need it. Rather, it’s a reminder to focus on priorities that actually matter.

As Sen. Glenneda Zuiderveld put it in a Substack post yesterday:

And now is the time for practical action. If you want honest government, fiscal restraint, and leaders who answer to YOU, not to lobbyists, not to party bosses, and not to federal strings, then join me. Talk to your neighbors. Show up. Vote. Volunteer. Support candidates who refuse to sell Idaho’s future to the highest bidder. The only thing standing between Idaho and political overreach is an informed, courageous, and engaged people.

Or, as Idaho GOP chair Dorothy Moon wrote this week:

Benjamin Franklin said we have a republic if we can keep it. National news may dominate the headlines, but local politics is where the real work gets done. It’s time to step up, get engaged, and do your part to keep our republic.

As you know, the Gem State Chronicle is reader supported:

Paid subscribers via Substack get bonus notes with some articles, giving me an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes thoughts with supporters, as well as early access to podcasts.
Do you have a small business you want to advertise? I’ll put your ad on the top of the Chronicle homepage, on the article sidebar, and will shout it out on any podcasts I release during the sponsorship. I’ll also write an article on behalf of sponsors, whether about a particular issue or just sharing their story. Send me a message and we’ll get it done. Take the time to visit my regular sponsors, Lynn Bradescu’s Keller Williams Realty and Money Metals, as well as our latest sponsor New Saint Andrews College. I appreciate the support!
I’ve relaunched the Merch Store with a couple of new branded items. Let me know if you have any ideas for items you’d like to see made available.
Make sure you’ve bookmarked Idaho Insider, your one stop shop for everything you need to know about your elected officials.

The past week at the Chronicle…

On Monday, I dove into the complex web of public utility monopolies—private companies, sometimes even partly-owned by firms like Blackrock, which are nevertheless tangled up in government.

On Tuesday, I checked in on the costs for renovating ITD’s State St. campus. Was holding on to the building a good deal?

On Friday, I laid out how political machines work, using Gov. Brad Little’s operation as an example. When facing an organized system like that, we can either complain, or play the game better.

I also reported on Will Eddy being appointed Shoshone County Sheriff, the latest chapter in that small town saga.

This week I published op-eds and newsletters from Suzanne Knorr on water issues, Idaho GOP chairwoman Dorothy Moon, an update from the Idaho State Tax Commission, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, KCRCC chairman Brent Regan, Sen. Jim Risch, and Congressman Mike Simpson.

In other news…

Substack:

Rep. Heather Scott sounded the alarm on digital currency.
Auron MacIntyre warned that if the Trump Administration doesn’t do the will of the people, the people will find someone who will.
Money Metals, a sponsor of this platform, published a podcast connecting the demise of the penny to decades of low interest rates and high inflation.
Sen. Brian Lenney asked why Idaho taxpayers are subsidizing AI-based education.
Radio host Bill Colley warned that socialism is on the horizon if we don’t correct our economic course.
Finally, the Legislative District 14 Republican Central Committee, which I am privileged to chair, voted unanimously to honor the life, work, and memory of Charlie Kirk. He visited Idaho perhaps more than any other national figure, and so he will always hold a special place in our hearts. It’s now on us to continue his work.

Videos:

Last week I found a new YouTube channel, hosted by author Hilary Layne. I’ve been catching up on her videos and this one jumped out at me. Vast swathes of the American people were so badly taught how to read that they struggle to understand basic concepts. What does this mean as citizens of a Republic?

Rufo and Lomez continue to hit it out of the park with their new podcast. They released two more episodes this week, the first of which laid out exactly what President Trump should do to continue the momentum from the incredible weeks following his inauguration:

Meanwhile, John Doyle explains that, contra the blackpillers, President Trump really has accomplished a lot thus far:

Tucker Carlson has been under fire for having the audacity to interview the wrong people. He responds to those criticisms and chats with Nalin Haley, a Zoomer and the son of a former Republican governor and presidential candidate:

Idaho’s own Pastor Doug Wilson lays out the path that those of us on the right must follow if we want to save our country:

Former Idaho state senator Steven Thayn is always thinking about the big picture. In this short video he urges Republicans to work together, because the real enemy is socialism, not each other:

I discovered yet another new channel this week (YouTube’s recommendation algorithm is actually pretty good). Jake the Lawyer has posted several videos explaining American history in the context of the law, including this one about what “separation of church and state” really means:

Jared Henderson dug into how algorithms have gained so much control over our attention, and what we can do about it:

Finally, Linus Sebastian of Linus Tech Tips demonstrates how far we’ve come with generative AI. The world is not ready for what is about to be unleashed:

Thank you all for your support as I continue to bring you news and analysis that empowers you to make positive change in Idaho. Make sure to subscribe, follow me on Twitter, and follow the Chronicle on Facebook, Telegram, YouTube, and Rumble. Have a great rest of your weekend, and have a lovely Thanksgiving Day!