URGENT UPDATE: Independent candidate Todd Achilles is making headlines as he challenges three-term Republican incumbent Jim Risch for a seat in the U.S. Senate, emphasizing a “rigged economy” and the need for change in Idaho’s political landscape. With his campaign gaining momentum, Achilles believes his populist message resonates with voters across the spectrum.
During a recent visit to the Lewiston Tribune, Achilles stated, “The core issue that I hear again and again from folks on the right, the left or in the middle, is it’s the rigged economy, and it’s just not working.” He argues that nearly 60% of Idahoans struggle to earn a livable wage, a sentiment that may drive voters to consider alternatives to traditional party lines in the upcoming elections.
Achilles is not just focused on economic issues; he aims to disrupt the political status quo. He envisions a scenario where independent candidates can hold significant power in the Senate, stating, “If Democrats pick up two Senate seats and two of the four independents win, we’d effectively set the agenda for the Senate.” This could position independents as critical tie-breakers, challenging both major parties and reshaping legislative priorities.
At 58 years old, Achilles has a diverse background, including military service as a tank commander and over two decades in the tech industry. He has also served in the Idaho Senate and currently teaches public policy at several universities. His unique perspective on economic issues, especially concerning monopolies in the housing market, resonates with voters frustrated by rising rents and stagnant wages.
Achilles cites alarming trends in Idaho’s housing market, where rents in areas like the Treasure Valley and Coeur d’Alene have reportedly surged at rates three times faster than inflation. “These property managers are hoovering up hundreds of millions of dollars out of the economy every month,” he said, highlighting the consequences of a “rigged market” where average citizens struggle to afford basic living costs.
On healthcare, he criticizes large corporations for exploiting workers by keeping them just below full-time status to avoid providing benefits. “It’s a function of ‘how do you exploit the community,’ rather than ‘how do you contribute to the community,'” he stated, calling for reforms that genuinely support Idahoans.
Achilles also expressed his stance on environmental issues, particularly regarding the $33.5 billion initiative proposed by Rep. Mike Simpson to save Snake River salmon. He supports efforts to improve the situation but urges a comprehensive strategy rather than merely maintaining the status quo.
In another contentious issue, Achilles criticized the recent announcement of plans for the Mountain Home Air Force Base to host Qatari jet fighters, arguing that Risch should have better informed constituents about the implications for Idaho. “They should have a town hall at Mountain Home and explain why we’re bringing the Qatari Air Force in to train,” he asserted.
As Risch, who is 82 years old and running for a fourth term, faces scrutiny, Achilles believes he has tapped into a growing dissatisfaction among voters. “I think roughly a quarter of Idaho voters don’t even know who he is, and those that do don’t really like him,” he claimed, suggesting there is an opportunity for change in Idaho’s political representation.
As the election approaches, Achilles is actively touring the state to introduce his vision and engage with voters. His message of economic reform and political independence may strike a chord with those seeking alternatives in a polarized political environment. The upcoming race will be pivotal, and all eyes will be on Idaho as voters decide whether to embrace a new direction in their Senate representation.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds in the lead-up to the elections.
