In a just-published post on her Substack, Sen. Cindy Carlson announced she is stepping away from the Idaho Freedom Caucus (IDFC):
The State Freedom Caucus Network charter states, “we need patriots who serve in our state capitals to fight federal overreach and stand firm against those – in both parties – who prioritize political power over representing constituents.” I have been proudly standing against federal overreach and have made every attempt to represent my constituents with every vote I cast insteadof prioritizing political power, regardless of the cost. Since 2023, I have been a dedicated member of the Idaho Freedom Caucus and I am very thankful for the experience which has been valuable. After much prayer and consideration, I have decided that at this time, being a member of the caucus is not a good fit for me, nor the best use of my time, so I prayerfully decided to resign last week.
Carlson went on to say that removing herself from the IDFC will allow her to spend more time on legislation such as property tax relief, the school funding formula, and protecting families and children. She also said she plans to sit on the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee next session.
Carlson concluded by lauding the potential for a more conservative Legislature:
The people of Idaho spoke loud and clear in the Primary election and they voted for a more conservative legislature. The Senate has an opportunity to choose a much more conservative Pro-Tem. I am excited to work hard towards this goal!
Carlson recently completed her first term in the Idaho Senate. She was unchallenged in this year’s primary and faces Democrat Bill Farmer in the general election.
The 2024 primary election saw defeat for two public members of the IDFC — Sen. Scott Herndon and Rep. Jacyn Gallagher — as well as the retirement of Rep. Mike Kingsley. However, several new legislators will at least be ideologically aligned with IDFC. Whether they publicly affiliate remains to be seen. Other public members might also choose to step away from the caucus as well.
Feature image via Sen. Carlson on Facebook
