coupdetat

PRESS RELEASE
July 17th, 2014

For Immediate Release
Contact:
Chairman Barry Peterson
208-343-6405
Idaho Republican Party

For Immediate Release:
Suit filed to Enjoin unauthorized call of Central Committee Meeting for August 2, 2014 in violation of State Party Rules

TWIN FALLS, ID — Today, State Chairman, Barry Peterson, and six members of the Idaho Republican Party Executive Committee, LeeAnn Callear, Vicky Purdy, Bryan Smith, Todd Hatfield, Marla Lawson and John Cross, filed a lawsuit in the District Court in Twin Falls against Mike Mathews and Cindy Siddoway, the two party members who illegally issued a call for a special meeting of the State Central Committee while unilaterally declaring that all state party offices were vacant.

“It is with great regret that we have had to take this legal action to enforce State Party Rules. Since June 12, 2014, much effort has been put forth to sit down with Governor Otter to resolve this issue. With no response from the Governor, this action is necessary to uphold the integrity of the Party and the Party Rules.”

“The power of the Governor’s office reaches every nook and cranny of the state’s political realm. Yet, the Republican Party is self-governing and has over the years established Rules to operate under. When some feel they are not bound by the Rules, does that mean that power makes right and we can set the Rules aside? For some it does. But I believe for the majority it is still important to operate within the Rules.”

“With communication and cooperation, a reasonable solution to this issue can be found. Contrary to some opinions, this dispute is not because I wish to remain Chairman. The objective is to work with and respect the Rules of the Party. With the support of the Governor, we can find an answer.”

For more information, contact the Idaho Republican Party Chairman, Barry Peterson, 208-343-6405.

# # #