Idaho Legislators Discuss Budget Cuts and Immigration at Townhall

Local lawmakers from Districts 32, 33 and 35 field questions from constituents on key legislative issues

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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In a townhall meeting, Idaho state legislators from Districts 32, 33 and 35 addressed constituent concerns over budget cuts and immigration policy. Lawmakers debated the merits of proposed budget reductions, with some warning of their potential impact on state services and programs. The discussion also touched on proposed legislation to mandate the use of E-Verify for government contractors, with legislators weighing the system's reliability and the need for thoughtful immigration reform.

Why it matters

The budget and immigration issues discussed at the townhall reflect ongoing debates in the Idaho legislature that have significant implications for the state's residents. Constituents are seeking clarity and accountability from their elected representatives as they navigate these complex policy challenges.

The details

Legislators from Districts 32, 33 and 35 addressed a range of budget-related concerns, with Sen. Kevin Cook criticizing the state's approach to budget cuts as shortsighted. Rep. Marco Erickson highlighted the impact of cuts to Medicaid programs, noting that three Idahoans have died as a result. Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen blamed previous tax cuts for the current budget deficit, warning that the proposed cuts could lead to future tax increases. Rep. Michael Leman Veile expressed hope that the cuts could drive program efficiencies, but was concerned about costs being shifted to local governments.

  • The townhall meeting was held on Saturday night.
  • The Idaho legislature is currently in session.

The players

Sen. Kevin Cook

A Republican state senator representing Idaho Falls who criticized the state's approach to budget cuts.

Rep. Marco Erickson

A Republican state representative from Idaho Falls who discussed the impact of Medicaid cuts on Idahoans.

Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen

A Republican state representative from Idaho Falls who blamed previous tax cuts for the current budget deficit.

Rep. Michael Leman Veile

A Republican state representative from Soda Springs who is serving his first term in the legislature and was appointed to fulfill the seat left by Kevin Andrus.

Rep. Josh Wheeler

A Republican state representative from Ammon who discussed proposed legislation to require the use of E-Verify for state and local government contractors.

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What they’re saying

“You would never do that in your personal life. You would never do that in your business.”

— Sen. Kevin Cook, State Senator (Idaho Capital Sun)

“They did this in November, which is when they made a few big cuts in the behavioral health space. Three people have died already.”

— Rep. Marco Erickson, State Representative (Idaho Capital Sun)

“What we have happening now is a consequence of poor leadership last year from those in leadership in the House.”

— Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen, State Representative (Idaho Capital Sun)

“One of the biggest concerns you hear when you talk about E-Verify is that it is not a particularly dependable system.”

— Rep. Josh Wheeler, State Representative (Idaho Capital Sun)

“Anytime we try to have thoughtful conversations about this particular issue, then people get harassed online, get threatened, get ICE called on their businesses, and things like that.”

— Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen, State Representative (Idaho Capital Sun)

What’s next

The Idaho Senate is expected to vote on a bill that would mandate a 1% cut to state agencies, which some legislators have warned could further harm state services and programs.

The takeaway

The townhall discussion highlighted the complex and often contentious nature of the budget and immigration debates in the Idaho legislature. Constituents are seeking clarity and accountability from their elected representatives as they navigate these challenging policy issues, which have significant implications for the state's residents.