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In a recent interview (April 16th) on Newstalk 107.9 with hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Josh Roy discussed his primary challenge against incumbent Senator Jim Rish. Roy, a licensed engineer with an MBA who works at a paper production facility in Lewiston, Idaho, cited his background in heavy manufacturing and concerns over the age of current congressional leadership as the primary motivations for his campaign.

Roy explained that his decision to run was sparked by a letter he wrote to Senator Rish regarding the rising cost of vehicles. Upon researching the incumbent, Roy noted that Rish would be 83 years old at the start of his next term. Roy expressed respect for Rish’s record but argued that the 82-year-old senator should be mentoring the next generation rather than seeking another term that would last until he is nearly 90. He characterized himself as a middle-class “working man” who offers a necessary perspective from the industrial sector.

A significant portion of the interview focused on Roy’s economic platform. He argued that inflation is largely driven by government bureaucracy and over-regulation. Drawing on his engineering expertise, Roy pointed to the cost of stability control systems and EPA-mandated engine technologies as factors that have doubled the price of work trucks and agricultural machinery. He asserted that Congress lacks members with “real-world” experience in steel mills, sawmills, or heavy manufacturing, which he believes is essential for addressing the country’s economic challenges.

Addressing the issue of seniority, Roy dismissed concerns that Idaho would lose influence if Senator Rish vacated his position as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He argued that leadership transitions are a natural and necessary part of a healthy representative government. On the topic of immigration, Roy stated that he supports legal processes and believes those who enter the country illegally should be deported “as expeditiously as possible.” Roy concluded by encouraging voters to seek more information on his platform through his official campaign website.

In an interview on Newstalk 107.9 with hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason, Judge Steven Boyce discussed his bid for reelection and the principles guiding his work on the bench. Boyce, who serves as the district judge for Madison, Fremont, and Teton counties, is currently facing a challenge for his seat from Bonneville County Prosecutor Randy Neal.

Boyce highlighted his deep roots in Southeast Idaho, having grown up in Idaho Falls and practiced law in the region since 1996. After serving as a magistrate judge, he was appointed to the district court by Governor Brad Little in 2019 and subsequently won election in 2022. During the interview, Boyce emphasized his extensive experience, including his current role as the Administrative District Judge for the Seventh Judicial District, where he oversees operations across ten counties.

The conversation touched upon Boyce’s role in presiding over high-profile cases, such as the trials of Lori Vallow Daybell and Chad Daybell. While judicial canons prevent him from discussing specific case details, Boyce noted that his judicial philosophy is centered on upholding the Constitution and treating every litigant equitably. “My philosophy is to support the law, to uphold the law, to apply the law, and to do what I think the community expects of a judge in each one of my cases,” Boyce said.

Boyce also addressed the complexities of plea agreements, explaining that they are negotiated entirely by the prosecution and defense without judicial involvement. He noted that while he has the authority to reject inequitable agreements, he generally discourages “binding” plea deals because they limit a judge’s sentencing discretion. He suggested that if the state has a solid case, it should be prepared to go to trial rather than rely on bargaining.

Regarding potential legislative reforms, Boyce pointed out inconsistencies in mandatory minimum sentencing. He observed that while certain drug offenses carry mandatory minimums, violent crimes like rape do not, which he argued can create uncertainty and stress for victims. Boyce concluded by citing a recent Idaho State Bar survey where he received high scores from his peers, expressing gratitude for the professional support as he approaches the upcoming election.