To follow the rules or not follow the rules, that was the question and basically the only order of business voted on at the Idaho GOP Convention in Moscow, Idaho, June 12-14.
State delegates representing 44 counties and 35 legislative districts passed resolutions, rule changes, platform revisions and eligibility decisions in committee meetings Friday to be presented and voted upon at the general session Saturday. But Friday the 13th proved to be luckier than Saturday the 14th!
The Credential Committee recommended disqualifying delegates from Power, Bannock and Ada Counties for election-process infractions. Evidence indicated that all registered Republicans didn’t have equal opportunity to run for state delegate (see IDGOP Rules for selection of Delegates…to State Convention: Article VII, Freedom of Opportunity).
A few delegates testified that instead of following exact rules, counties should be given a pass. But “a pass” is what some counties and delegates have had in convention after convention, some delegates testified. The Republican delegation voted in favor of obeying the rules, even if it meant adjourning before other scheduled business could be accomplished.
Many in attendance were disappointed that their rules, resolutions and platform changes will have to be postponed and that no new officers can now be elected until 2016. Others said that counties will now be more careful to adhere to the party election rules.
After all, if you drive 65 mph in a 55 mph speed zone and get caught, you just may get a ticket.
Elaine K King
Legislative District 34 Chair and delegate to the State GOP Convention at Moscow, Idaho.