Ten candidates spoke Tuesday at the Shoshone County Nonpartisan Candidate Forum, held at the Shoshone Golf Club in Big Creek.
More than 75 people attended the event, co-hosted by the Silver Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Shoshone News-Press. Because turnout was below expectations, candidates were given more than the customary five minutes to speak. Each participating candidate answered at least one question.
Federal and State Races
Todd Achilles, the only federal candidate at the forum, is running as an independent against U.S. Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho. Achilles said, “When congress isn’t working, the judiciary and the executive branches fill in the gap.”
John Stegner, an independent candidate for governor and retired judge, previously served five years on the Idaho Supreme Court. Stegner said, “I was raised to believe that if something wasn’t working, you don’t just stand back and hope things get better.”
Valerie Wade is challenging Phil Hart, R-Athol, for the District 2 Senate seat. Sabine Krier is running against Dale Hawkins, R-Fernwood, for District 2 House Seat B. Wade and Krier discussed community involvement, civic engagement, lower taxes and opposition to data centers.
County Races
Dameon Groves is unopposed for the District 1 Shoshone County commissioner position after defeating Ryan Frick in the primary. Groves listed support for the sheriff’s office and strengthening the Shoshone County Public Works workforce among his county goals.
Tami Atkins, Jay Huber and Sabrina Hyndman are running for the District 2 commissioner seat. Hyndman did not attend the forum. Huber previously served two terms as a commissioner and lost his 2022 re-election bid to David Dose.
Atkins said nearly 25 years of banking experience prepared her to focus on the county budget and reduce unnecessary spending.
Karey Eddy is unopposed for Shoshone County treasurer. Katie Murray is running against Robert Savage for county assessor. Murray worked in the assessor’s office for much of the past decade.
Rick Smith, the incumbent Shoshone County coroner, is being challenged by Julie Hernandez.
Shoshone County Sheriff Shawn Wehr did not attend. Wehr is unopposed after winning a three-way primary against John Richter and Chris Rice.
Juli Zook represented the Silver Valley Chamber at the forum.