Local democrats respond to Republican early primary

The Bannock County Democrats aren’t thrilled with the Idaho Republican Party’s decision to hold an early presidential primary to select a presidential nominee.

The party made the move to help bring more voters to the polls. Dave Finkelnburg, the chairman for the Bannock County Democrats, said he’s skeptical the early primary can do that.

He also feels it doesn’t recognize the needs of Idaho voters.

“Voters in Idaho need to see an investment in education and job opportunities for our kids and our grandchildren,” said Finkelnburg. “What we’re seeing here is they’re announcing they’re going to actually spend the $2 million it will cost taxpayers.”

The early presidential primary will take place on March 8, and early voting and absentee voting will be available. The regular primary election for all other election races will be on May 17.