Idaho Democrats have announced their three appointments for the 2011 Redistricting Commission, a bipartisan citizen committee that will draw new legislative and congressional districts lines this summer for the next decade's worth of elections. Republicans haven't yet announced their three picks. The Dems' choices: Allen Andersen of Pocatello, who was appointed by Senate Minority Leader Edgar Malepeai; Julie Kane of Lapwai, the choice of House Minority Leader John Rusche; and George Moses of Boise, selected by state Democratic Party Chairman Larry Grant. Click below for the Democratic Party's full announcement.

Idaho Democratic Party
News release from the Idaho Democratic Party
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: 4/22/11

Democrats announce their appointments to the Idaho Redistricting Commission


BOISE— Idaho Democrats are pleased to announce their team for the 2011 Redistricting Commission – Allen Andersen of Pocatello, Julie Kane of Lapwai and George Moses of Boise.

Redistricting, which involves redrawing all the district boundaries for the state legislature as well as for Idaho’s two Congressional districts, will begin this summer.  Commonly referred to as the “blood sport of politics,” Idaho’s map is prepared by a bi-partisan, six-member commission, and occurs every ten years after the U.S. Census.

As required by the Idaho Constitution, it is the responsibility of the Senate Pro Tem, the Speaker of the House, the Senate and House Minority Leaders, and each chair of the two leading political parties to appoint a member to the Commission.  Senate Minority Leader, Edgar Malepeai selected Allen Andersen.  House Minority Leader, John Rusche appointed Julie Kane, and Idaho State Democratic Chair, Larry Grant selected George Moses.

“We received many qualified applications, and it was an intense selection process,” explained Democratic State Party Chair, Larry Grant.  “After serious deliberation, we are pleased to announce a team that reflects Idaho and offers a unique skill set that is knowledgeable, professional and fair.”

Allen Andersen holds both a Bachelor of Science, Secondary Education, in Mathematics and a Masters of Science in Mathematics.  A former high school math teacher and ISU professor, he served one term in the Idaho House of Representatives in 2003-2004.  With a long history of public service, Andersen also has a background in military security and is well respected for his ability to negotiate.

Julie Kane is currently the Managing Attorney for the Office of Legal Counsel of the Nez Perce Tribe.  The former Assistant Attorney General for the State of Washington and staff attorney for the Tribe, she is a member of the bar of Idaho and Washington, as well as the American and Federal bar associations.  She served as a member of the Lapwai school district for over ten years.  

George Moses, a Vietnam veteran, has extensive field knowledge from his decades of experience with Democratic campaigns at the local, state and federal level.  A former Congressional aide, he has an extensive business background, largely in the high-technology electronics industry, holding positions from manager to vice president in industry trade associations.  He presently serves as political coordinator for Teamsters Local 483, covering southwestern Idaho.

Once the Secretary of State “calls” the Commission, likely in early June, the Commission has 90 days to submit a map that at least four of the six commissioners vote in favor of.  During that time, they will hold statewide public hearings for input.

“I cannot stress enough to Idahoans the importance of these hearings,” Grant stated. “Once these lines are drawn, the political terrain in Idaho will be defined for the next 10 years.  The future map has the potential to undermine or enhance local community interests.  It is a civic responsibility of the public to share those interests with the Commission.”

Once the Commission convenes, the dates and locations of the public hearings will be set and posted on http://legislature.idaho.gov.  Citizens will also be able to submit their own suggestions through the use of online software that will permit anyone in Idaho to draw and submit a redistricting map.

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