**FULL DEBATE VIDEO AVAILABLE BELOW**
(IDAHO FALLS) – Incumbent Representative Stephanie Mickelsen and challenger Kelly Golden met in the Sandhill Media Group studio on Newstalk 107.9 to debate several key issues ahead of the upcoming primary election. The discussion, moderated by Neal Larson and Julie Mason, touched on immigration, healthcare policy, water rights, and the role of faith in government.
The candidates offered diverging views on immigration enforcement within the state. Mickelsen, who has served two terms in the legislature, defended her opposition to state-mandated E-Verify requirements. She argued that while she supports federal border security, state-level mandates create “uncompetitive advantages” for Idaho businesses and increase the regulatory burden on local farmers. Golden, conversely, advocated for stronger state intervention, expressing support for the 287(g) program. Golden argued that Idaho should partner more closely with federal authorities to address what she described as an immigration crisis, stating the state needs to “take care of our own house.”
Healthcare and the state’s abortion laws also served as a primary point of contention. Mickelsen clarified her pro-life stance but emphasized the need to protect maternal health to prevent a further exodus of OBGYN specialists from the state. She suggested codifying recent court clarifications into statute to ensure doctors can act when a mother’s health is at risk. Golden stated she firmly supports the “Defense of Life Act” as currently written, arguing that any changes to include the “health of the mother” could lead to an increase in elective procedures. Golden maintained that the current legal framework provides sufficient protection while prioritizing the life of the unborn.
Regarding East Idaho’s water interests, Mickelsen pointed to her long-standing expertise in water policy and her efforts to manage the Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer for future generations. Golden suggested that the state needs better data, proposing that the aquifer be mapped with advanced technology to move beyond “anecdotal evidence” during negotiations between surface and groundwater users.
Both candidates concluded the broadcast by encouraging citizens to participate in early voting, which has already begun in the region. Mickelsen and Golden agreed on their opposition to the legalization of medical marijuana, citing concerns over public safety and impact on the youth.
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