Thirteen Oregon Counties Vote to Join Conservative Idaho Movement

Thirteen counties in Oregon, frustrated with the state’s liberal policies, have voted to initiate negotiations to secede and join conservative Idaho.

Crook County recently joined this growing movement by approving the “Greater Idaho Measure” in a vote held on Tuesday.

This proposal, if successful, would shift Oregon’s border 200 miles westward, incorporating 14 full counties and parts of several others into Idaho.

Background: The Greater Idaho Movement

The Greater Idaho movement is driven by a sense of alienation among eastern Oregonians who feel disconnected from the state’s progressive policies.

Supporters argue that these policies contribute to high crime rates and excessive taxation. They believe that joining Idaho would offer residents lower taxes and better representation, aligning more closely with their conservative values.

Cultural and Economic Motivations

The movement’s proponents highlight a significant cultural divide between eastern and western Oregon.

According to the Greater Idaho movement’s website, the current state line, established 163 years ago, no longer reflects the state’s cultural realities.

They argue that eastern Oregon’s economy is hindered by stringent Oregon regulations and taxes, particularly environmental ones.

In contrast, they believe Idaho’s regulatory environment is more respectful of rural counties and their livelihoods, providing a more suitable governance structure for their needs.

Recent Developments: Crook County’s Vote

Measure 7-86, known as the Greater Idaho Measure, passed with 53 percent support in Crook County, adding momentum to the movement. Although the vote is not legally binding, it sends a strong message to state and federal representatives about the residents’ desire to start negotiations for annexation.

Matt McCaw, Executive Director of Greater Idaho, emphasized that the residents of eastern Oregon have clearly expressed their wish to move forward with border discussions.

Political Reactions and Next Steps

With Crook County’s recent vote, the pressure on the Oregon Legislature and Governor to address the issue has intensified.

McCaw called on state leaders to begin discussions on the logistics of a potential border change.

Mike Carter, President of Greater Idaho, echoed this sentiment, stressing that the people’s voices should guide the state’s actions.

He urged leaders to honor the democratic process by considering the will of the voters and taking concrete steps towards changing the governance structure for eastern Oregonians.

Historical Context and Broader Implications

The last adjustment to Oregon’s state line occurred in 1958 and was relatively minor. The proposed shift to incorporate parts of Oregon into Idaho represents a more significant change, driven by modern political and cultural dynamics. The Greater Idaho movement is not an isolated phenomenon.

Similar efforts have been seen in other parts of the country. For instance, in Texas, a state senator proposed a bill to allow a vote on “Texit.”

In Illinois and Colorado, some counties have expressed interest in joining neighboring states. These movements reflect broader discontent with current state policies and a desire for governance that better aligns with local values and needs.

Public Opinion and Support in Idaho

A recent poll indicated strong support for the Greater Idaho proposal among Idahoans, suggesting that the idea resonates beyond Oregon’s borders.

This regional support is crucial for the movement’s potential success, as any border change would require approval from both states’ legislatures and possibly Congress.

Comparative Cases: Local Secession Movements

Local secession movements are not unique to Oregon. For example, the affluent enclave of Lost Creek in Austin, Texas, saw 91 percent of its residents vote to separate from the city in a recent election.

These cases highlight a growing trend of communities seeking to realign their governance structures to better reflect their values and interests.

Conclusion: A Divisive Proposal with National Repercussions

The movement to shift 13 Oregon counties into Idaho reflects deep-seated regional discontent with state policies.

While the Greater Idaho Measure is not yet legally binding, it underscores a significant cultural and political divide within Oregon.

The outcome of this movement could have far-reaching implications, potentially influencing similar efforts across the United States.

As negotiations and discussions begin, the eyes of the nation will be on Oregon and Idaho, watching to see how this bold proposal unfolds and what it might mean for the future of state borders and governance in America.

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TDPel Media

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