Republicans meet and greet in Pocatello

Republican candidates from all levels of candidacy gathered at Idaho State University Thursday for a meet and greet sponsored by the College Republicans group on campus.

One big topic in this election is campaigns. There are many advertisements filling the airwaves that focus on which candidate is doing what wrong. Many have been asking if campaigns can be run clean and maintain relationships with fellow Republicans.

“I’d rather follow my own principles and values, and I think they mirror my district at this point,” Kelly Packer, incumbent for Idaho House Seat 28-B, said. “But if it ever gets to the point where they don’t, then I should be voted out because I don’t want to change who I am and what I believe in.”

Packer said she is worried the campaigns will affect future relationships with fellow Republicans, especially if those campaigns use attack and smear tactics.

But her challenger said it’s not attacking or smearing to question the way an elected official has voted. He said he thinks it’s best to vote by the Constitution.

“It comes down to one thing: do you believe the Constitution should be used and followed in the governing of our land, or do you you believe it shouldn’t?” said Lance Earl, challenger of Seat 28-B. “Because if you believe it should, I’m the person to vote for. And if you don’t care, there’s another option.”

Primary voting and ballot measure voting is on May 20. You can vote early by simply going to the county election office.