Abstract
While it seems simple enough to describe Idaho as one of the most conservative states in the union, there are subtleties and exceptions that provide insights into Idahoans’ views of themselves and their relationship with the rest of the country. Historian Carlos Schwantes has written that, in fact, “Idaho remains one of the least known and most puzzling American states.”¹ Political journalist Randy Stapilus noted that Idahoans “desire not just rugged but aggressive independence” and that “as a group they display a colorful political perversity.”² Taken together, these characteristics outline the challenge of analyzing Idaho politics.