Flag Wars!
Nichols for Idaho
Dear Friends,
As many of you know, Boise Mayor Lauren McLean is currently defying Idaho’s recently passed House Bill 96, which restricts government entities from flying any flags other than the U.S., state, and local flags, along with certain military and tribal flags. This law, which I strongly supported, was put in place to ensure that government buildings reflect the values of our state and nation, not personal or political agendas. By continuing to display the Pride and organ donation awareness flags at City Hall, the Mayor is not only disrespecting the law but also disregarding the will of the people who elected her.
The law itself doesn't carry immediate enforcement penalties, but Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador has made it clear that the city is in violation and has urged Boise to comply. While there are no direct consequences outlined within the bill, the Attorney General encouraged citizens to hold the Mayor accountable, something I fully support. The Mayor, however, has refused to follow the law, framing her actions as a defense of free expression. But the truth is, her decision to continue flying these flags sends the wrong message: that laws can be ignored when they don't align with personal beliefs.
This situation escalated when conservative activists, frustrated by the Mayor’s defiance, covered the flags with garbage bags and replaced them with an “Appeal to Heaven” flag. This flag, a symbol from the American Revolutionary War, reflects the desire for freedom and the defense of our rights. The Mayor quickly restored the original flags, condemning the act of vandalism but once again ignoring the legal framework set by the legislature.
I’ve heard from several concerned constituents who feel strongly about this issue, with many expressing frustration that the law is being openly flouted by the Mayor. They are right to be upset. As a member of the legislature, my duty is to uphold the laws of Idaho — laws that represent the values of our community, not personal ideologies, the same should go for the Mayor.
Some members of the legislature have suggested consequences which we are looking into, and former Solicitor General Theo Wold rightly pointed out on X that the Mayor’s response to the Idaho Attorney General “welcomes a legal challenge.” Wold also noted that any individual who is directly affected by Boise’s divisive flag-flying could seek injunctive relief, opening the door for a court decision on the matter. I believe that it’s time to hold local leaders accountable when they choose to ignore state law. We cannot allow one individual to undermine the rule of law for political purposes.
At the end of the day, this issue isn’t about free expression — it’s about respecting the law and the process. As a conservative, I believe it’s essential that we uphold the values of Idaho and the Constitution. Mayor McLean’s actions are a clear disregard for both, and I will continue to work towards ensuring that our laws are respected by every public official, no matter their personal beliefs. The people of Idaho deserve better, and it’s time to put the rule of law above political agendas.
In Liberty,
Senator Tammy Nichols
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Extra, Extra Recap:
A new Tractor Supply Distribution Center will be built in Nampa and I had the opportunity to attend the ground breaking ceremony this past week, along with many other community leaders and members. This center is expected to employ 500 full-time positions. The Company also donated $10,000 each to the Ridgevue FFA and Canyon County 4-H chapters during the ceremony. To read more about this announcement click here.
Idaho Freedom Caucus
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