Idaho Power’s Rate Hikes Expose Corporate Cronyism

Idaho Freedom Foundation President Ron Nate joins Bob Neugebauer to dissect the political implications of Governor Little’s Trump endorsement and examine whether Idaho’s governor truly deserves his conservative reputation. Nate argues that Little’s record shows reluctant leadership, citing his initial veto of medical freedom legislation and his championing of the socialist Idaho Launch program that uses taxpayer funds to train workers for corporate cronies.

The conversation turns to Idaho Power’s outrageous rate increase proposals—17% for households and small businesses while big corporations get only 7% increases. Nate exposes how Idaho Power is moving away from cheap coal energy to expensive renewables while exporting electricity to California, forcing Idaho families to compete with West Coast demand. The hosts discuss potential federal funding cuts under Trump’s DOGE initiative and whether Idaho is prepared to reduce its 42% dependency on federal spending.

Nate reveals insights from a recent State Policy Network conference, where conservative think tank leaders nationwide reported similar battles against so-called Republican legislators who block conservative reforms. Despite Idaho’s 85% Republican legislature, only 29 out of 105 legislators are genuinely conservative. The discussion covers illegal immigration’s impact on Idaho businesses, the need for Argentina-style government cuts, and the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s expanding role in holding politicians accountable.

The hosts conclude by examining upcoming liberal protests in Idaho cities and the broader conservative movement’s momentum. Nate emphasizes that 2025 will be pivotal for implementing genuine conservative reforms and reducing Idaho’s bloated government spending through principled leadership rather than corporate cronyism.

Chapters with Timestamps

Trump-Little Alliance and Conservative Credentials

Ron Nate questions whether Governor Little’s Trump endorsement reflects genuine conservatism or political opportunism. Despite his reputation as a regulation slasher, Nate argues that Little reluctantly signs conservative legislation only under overwhelming pressure, while proactively championing socialist programs like Idaho Launch that benefit corporate cronies.

Federal Dependency and Idaho’s Future Independence

Discussion of Trump’s DOGE initiative potentially cutting federal funding to states, with Idaho receiving 42% of government spending from federal sources. Nate welcomes reduced federal dependency, particularly elimination of Department of Education funding, arguing Idaho has sufficient slack and inefficiency to prosper independently while regaining autonomy over education decisions.

Rare Earth Mining and Government Partnerships

Bob suggests Trump’s Idaho endorsement relates to accessing rare earth minerals on government-held property, potentially transforming Idaho from a tourist destination to a mining state. Ron expresses nervousness about government-corporate partnerships, preferring private ownership and usage of natural resources while acknowledging the capital-intensive nature of rare earth extraction and refining operations.

Idaho Power Rate Crisis and California Exports

Examination of Idaho Power’s proposed 17% rate increases for households versus 7% for big corporations, driven by expensive renewable energy transitions and electricity exports to California. The hosts detail how moving from coal to solar and wind increases costs six to seven times while Idaho f