State legislator decides to take on Jim Risch

Todd Achilles, a former Idaho state legislator, is gearing up to challenge incumbent Republican U. S. Senator James Risch in the next election. As part of his campaign strategy, Achilles is conducting a listening tour across North Idaho to understand the primary concerns of voters. Key issues include healthcare, housing affordability, and rising living costs, with many young adults struggling to afford rent and groceries.

Achilles emphasized the need to prevent landlords from using pricing algorithms to control rent prices. He is also focused on the impact of artificial intelligence on employment and economic stability. With over a third of Idaho voters registered as unaffiliated, Achilles aims to appeal to centrist voters through populist policies. He pointed out the aging demographics of U. S.

senators, noting that both he and Risch are in their late 50s and early 80s, respectively. Risch, who has held federal office for more than 15 years, did not respond to a request for comment.