Chenoweth Critical Of `Invasions’

U.S. Rep. Helen Chenoweth issued a statement late Thursday saying she has told a federal official she’ll be his “worst nightmare” unless the feds stop what she termed their invasions of private land in Idaho to enforce environmental laws.

A Chenoweth press release stated, “Chenoweth expressed serious concerns about the administration’s use of armed agency officials and helicopters to verify compliance with Endangered Species Act and other environmental regulations on private property, in violation of Idaho state law.”

Chenoweth, R-Idaho, gave no specific examples of such invasions.Chenoweth cited the Idaho Constitution’s provision against “importation of armed forces” to support her comments.

“I am personally requesting that you work with Gov. Phil Batt and other Idaho officials to ensure that this type of activity ceases,” Chenoweth was quoted as saying. “Because if it does not, Mr. Lyons, I guarantee you I will be your worst nightmare for at least the next two years.”

The release did not specify if the official was Assistant Agriculture Secretary Jim Lyons or another federal official.