Jilene Burger, a candidate for the Idaho Legislature in District 33B, recently appeared on Newstalk 107.9 to discuss her campaign and legislative priorities. Speaking with hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason, Burger detailed her background and the conservative principles she intends to bring to the Statehouse if elected to the seat currently held by incumbent Marco Erickson.
Burger described herself as a “very conservative” candidate whose political philosophy is rooted in the works of the Founding Fathers and the principles of limited government. She cited her personal history, including her work with the State Department and the Internal Revenue Service, as experiences that shaped her view of how government functions. A significant influence on her platform is the book “The 5,000 Year Leap,” which emphasizes prosperity through adherence to original constitutional principles.
During the interview, Burger highlighted several key areas where her voting record would differ from her opponent’s. She expressed strong opposition to Medicaid expansion and the Idaho Launch bill, characterizing such programs as an unauthorized redistribution of wealth. “The government really does not have authority to redistribute wealth,” Burger stated, arguing that assistance for the needy should come from private charity rather than taxpayer funds. To illustrate this point, she referenced an anecdote about Davy Crockett, who argued against using public funds for individual relief, advocating instead for personal charitable giving.
Regarding the recent legislative session, Burger expressed frustration over the handling of immigration-related legislation. She noted that approximately 15 bills aimed at addressing illegal immigration failed to pass, with some being “drawered” by committee chairs without receiving a hearing. Burger signaled her support for House Bill 660, which would allow law enforcement to verify the immigration status of individuals during arrests, and advocated for a focus on legal immigration pathways.
Other priorities mentioned by Burger include the elimination of the grocery tax, the protection of traditional values, and a commitment to pro-life policies. She also voiced concerns regarding geoengineering, specifically the presence of toxic metals in the atmosphere. Burger encouraged voters to visit her campaign website for information on upcoming events, including a tentative fundraiser scheduled for May 9.
