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Committee introduces measure to require party label on campaign materials
Summary
Representative Healy introduced RS 32370 to require political affiliation be displayed on campaign materials; the committee voted to introduce the request so the idea can proceed to formal drafting and consideration.
BOISE — Representative Sally Healy introduced RS 32370 to the House State Affairs Committee, a proposal that would require candidates and organizations to include a party designation on campaign materials, and the committee voted to introduce the request for further consideration.
"This RS simply has to do with the security of our elections and securing really the election accountability," Representative Healy said. "By making political affiliations explicit, voters can better assess the motivations and credibility of those seeking to influence their choices."
Healy said the proposal would require political affiliation to appear on campaign signs, mailers, websites and other campaign items when the candidate runs under a party. "If you have to run on a party line, yes," Healy said in response to a question about applicability to school boards and similar offices.
Representative Mickelson asked whether the bill's long legislative-intent section was necessary; Healy replied that the intent language is included to support the bill if it faces legal challenge and to explain the rationale. Representative Scott asked whether abbreviations or party symbols ("an R or an elephant") would suffice; Healy said she "purposely left it vague" and that an "R" or party symbol would be acceptable.
Representative Boyle moved to introduce RS 32,370. The committee took a voice vote and the motion carried.
The request will move forward for drafting into bill language and future committee consideration.
