10.14.25–NLS–Achilles Runs for Risch’s U.S. Senate Seat">10.14.25–NLS–Achilles Runs for Risch’s U.S. Senate Seat

10.14.25–NLS–Achilles Runs for Risch’s U.S. Senate Seat">

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The Neal Larson Show features an in-depth interview with Todd Achilles, an independent candidate for the U.S. Senate in Idaho. Achilles explains his decision to leave the Democratic Party stems from a belief that the “broken two-party system” is failing the country, citing issues like President Biden’s re-election campaign and the influence of big tech monopolies as examples of corruption. Neal and Julie, challenge this reasoning, suggesting his independent run is a strategic move to overcome the political liability of the Democratic label in a deeply Republican state, pointing to his history of donating almost exclusively to Democrats. Achilles defends his position by highlighting his bipartisan record in the state legislature and his ultimate goal of forming an independent caucus in the Senate to act as a moderating force and deny a majority to either party.

The interview delves into specific policy disagreements, beginning with Achilles’ past support for the failed Proposition 1 initiative for open primaries and ranked-choice voting. The discussion then highlights a fundamental philosophical divide, with Achilles asserting that it is “too hard to live in Idaho” and arguing for a higher minimum wage and greater corporate responsibility for employee healthcare. He defends his appearance at a rally with Bernie Sanders and AOC by citing common ground on fighting economic monopolies. This prompts a broader debate between the hosts and Achilles on free-market principles and individual responsibility versus a collectivist view where corporations and society have an obligation to provide for workers’ needs like healthcare.

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“A tragic nightmare”: Devastating hunting accident claims life of young Blackfoot woman">“A tragic nightmare”: Devastating hunting accident claims life of young Blackfoot woman

“A tragic nightmare”: Devastating hunting accident claims life of young Blackfoot woman">

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI)– A 21-year-old woman from Blackfoot, Kaylanee Orr, tragically died on October 10 following a fatal accident during a hunting trip with relatives.

According to the Fremont County Coroner, Orr died from a gunshot wound. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, which occurred Friday evening in a remote area of Fremont County.

Fremont County Sheriff Bart Quayle described the situation as “the most tragic nightmare this family (or any family) can imagine.” In a statement sent to Local News 8, Quayle confirmed that emergency personnel and investigators responded swiftly and worked on the scene for several hours.

“Every indication leads us to believe this was a traumatic accident that has devastated this poor family,” Quayle said. “While we perform our due diligence, pursuing the truth and facts, we’re mindful of the extreme grief this family feels.”

He added, “If I can buy them a few days to simply process and grieve, I feel it is appropriate. Our deepest condolences are offered to those grieving at this time.”

Orr was a graduate of Snake River High School and served a mission in New Zealand for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was the foundation of her life, according to her online obituary.

In the wake of her passing, a Spotfund campaign organized by Amanda Graff has raised over $20,000 of its $30,000 goal to help cover funeral expenses.

As the investigation remains ongoing, authorities are asking for the public’s patience and understanding out of respect for the family’s mourning process.

EconoLodge standoff suspect postpones plea agreement">EconoLodge standoff suspect postpones plea agreement

EconoLodge standoff suspect postpones plea agreement">

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – An expected plea agreement in the case of Robert Flores has been postponed.

RELATED: What we know about the man involved in the Econo Lodge standoff

Robert Alan Flores Jr.

Flores is accused of shooting at Idaho Falls police officers during a standoff at the EconoLodge Motel on Broadway Avenue in Idaho Falls in April 2024. No officers were hit during the incident. They did return fire, injuring Flores.

He was expected to change his plea to guilty today; however. Flores has asked for more time to discuss the details of the plea agreement with his attorney. A status hearing has been scheduled for November 18.

If an agreement is not reached soon, the case could go to trial in the spring. A judge has placed it on his trial calendar for May 11, 2026.

Idaho Insurance Broker weighs in on potential health insurance premium spikes">Idaho Insurance Broker weighs in on potential health insurance premium spikes

Idaho Insurance Broker weighs in on potential health insurance premium spikes">

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) —With the government shutdown approaching the two week mark, one of the biggest holdups in congress focuses on whether to extend the Biden-era tax credits for health insurance.

At the moment, the tax credits are set to expire. The average American who uses marketplace plans could see their insurance premiums more than double. 

Local News 8 spoke with several insurance brokers about what they’re seeing for their clients, including insurance broker Brian McKellar with the Buckner Company.

“No, there’s an individual, she cuts hair,” McKellar said. “I know her well; she doesn’t make a ton of money. I’m pretty sure she supports her kids, too. She was paying $82. Hers is going to go to $292 if I don’t make any changes.”

That’s just one of several examples McKellar has seen over the past few days. 

The reason for these increased costs is two fold. First, the amount of tax credits someone receives to help pay for insurance costs is cut dramatically. And second, those that make 400% or more over the poverty line no longer receive any tax credit at all. 

“Either way, it’s costs that’s going to increase on these families, whether it’s in terms of deductible costs like risk costs or just premium cost,” McKellar said.

At a time when costs for everything are going up faster than wages, many insurance brokers, including McKellar, think that if the tax credits are not extended, many people will simply take the risk and go without. 

“There’s 100,000 Idahoans that depend on this, and 30% is what they’re saying is going to probably drop coverage. Based on the analysis that I’m seeing right now, it could be true,” McKellar said. 

McKeller has been contacting Idaho’s congressmen about the issue and urging them to find a solution for several weeks now.

You can follow some of McKellar’s thoughts and discussions about his interactions with Idaho’s congressional delegation on his social media page.

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