As Idahoans, we take our civic responsibilities seriously. We believe in the power of dialogue, transparency, and accountability. In American democratic society, it is vital that elected officials remain open to the scrutiny and questioning of those they represent - just as generations of our past leaders did, including Cecil Andrus, Jim McClure, and William Borah. Senator Risch, however, rarely holds public events, which makes it difficult for him to connect with his constituents. This is why we, the citizens of Idaho, are calling on U.S. Senator Jim Risch to participate in at least one public debate ahead of the upcoming election in November.

Senator Jim Risch, currently 83 years old, is running for another 6-year term. If he believes he is fit to continue vigorously representing Idahoans until the age of 89, then it is only fair to ask him to prove his ability to do his job, now. If he can't do his job now, he doesn't deserve to be elected to six more years. Idaho voters deserve to hear directly from both candidates on their policies and their records. The Achilles campaign has proposed debates on critical issues such as American Freedom, American Prosperity, and American Responsibility. Senator Risch does not have to agree to these topics, but Idahoans deserve some kind of a debate! These discussions will help Idaho make an informed decision about who is best equipped to lead us through this technologically advancing world.

Public debates are foundational to the republican process, providing voters the opportunity to compare candidates' positions, test their grasp of the issues, and evaluate their fitness for office. Senator Risch's refusal to engage in any debate is not just a disservice to his credibility, but to every Idahoan seeking transparency and accountability from their leaders. Engaging in debate would demonstrate Senator Risch's commitment to Idaho, his respect for his constituents, and allow him to prove his ability to serve another six years. 

By signing this petition, you are taking a stand for transparency, accountability, and Idaho elections. Let's ensure that Idahoans have the opportunity to take part in a critical conversation about the future we all share.

Please sign this petition to support the call for a public debate between Senator Jim Risch and Todd Achilles before October.

UPDATE: donations made on this petition go to Change.org - they DO NOT go to any campaign or to any fund used to promote a debate. Donations it appears do serve to promote this petition on Change.org and to Change's members. Promoting it through donations here may do some good, but you may be better off sharing it with your own networks. You may also donate to the Achilles campaign if you wish, as the Achilles team is strongly pushing for a debate. You may also reach out to the Risch campaign and ask them to agree to a debate, or of course donate money to them, though as the Senator has around $3,800,000 cash on hand, and has refused a debate so far, donations to Senator Risch are very unlikely to lead to a debate.