Staff Reports
In a major win for the Greater Idaho movement, Crook County in rural Oregon has voted to pursue negotiations to join Idaho by relocating the state border. The unofficial results from Tuesday’s election show that 53% of voters supported the Greater Idaho resolution, making Crook County the thirteenth county to approve the measure.
Oregon sees 13th county vote to secede, join Idaho as ‘Greater Idaho’ gains steam https://t.co/DBLyed3FWj pic.twitter.com/x1u8sNAG4i
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) May 24, 2024
This movement stems from the frustration of residents in eastern Oregon, who feel overlooked and unheard by the Democrat-controlled Legislature, which is largely influenced by politicians from Portland and the coastal areas. The grassroots effort is driven by a desire for governance that better aligns with the priorities of eastern Oregonians.
Mike McCaw, the Executive Director of Greater Idaho, emphasized the clear message sent by the voters of eastern Oregon. He urged the governor and state legislators to engage in discussions about potential border changes, as well as to consider the governance needs of eastern Oregonians.
Despite efforts by groups in Portland to oppose the movement, the Greater Idaho resolution passed in Crook County. The ultimate goal is to move 14 full eastern Oregon counties and three partial counties, which would account for about two-thirds of Oregon’s land mass, into Idaho.
While relocating state borders is not unprecedented, it presents significant challenges. Approval from both the Oregon and Idaho state legislatures, as well as Congress, would be required for any border reconfiguration to become a reality.
The Oregon lawmakers have not yet embraced the idea, but the Idaho House previously passed a nonbinding memorial to encourage discussions between the two states. The Greater Idaho movement continues to gain traction, and its proponents are determined to pursue their vision for a different state governance structure.
