Legislator selected as US attorney + Projects protect Kackley Ranch + Column: Risch should stand up to Russian diesel

By Christina Lords | Editor-in-Chief

“Our office will remain focused on upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens by prosecuting terrorism, drug trafficking, violent crime, human trafficking, illegal immigration offenses, and fraud. The safety of Idahoans and their communities is paramount.” - New U.S. attorney for the District of Idaho John Shirts

State Rep. John Shirts, R-Weiser, speaks from the floor of the Idaho House of Representatives on March 16, 2026, at the Idaho Capitol Building in Boise. (Photo by Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun)

COURTS + POLICING

Idaho legislator selected to serve as state’s next US attorney after Davis retires

By Christina Lords

U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche appointed Rep. John Shirts, R-Weiser, as U.S. attorney for the District of Idaho, effective Sunday.

At an educational media event on Oct. 8, 2026, leaders from the Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust and its co-project leader, Trout Unlimited, share their vision for riparian restoration projects on the Kackley Ranch Preserve in Idaho’s Caribou County with project partners, funders and members of the press. (Photo by Liz Cartwright for the Idaho Capital Sun)

ENVIRONMENT

Stream, riparian restoration could protect Idaho’s Kackley Ranch Preserve for generations to come

By Liz Cartwright

“The Sagebrush Land Trust was tasked with permanently protected this working cattle ranch,” said Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust Executive Director Heath Mann. “We continue to maintain and improve the Kackley ranch as a profitable operation. We maintain the value of the property, and the values and traditions that have made Idaho what it is today.”

U.S. Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in June 2022 in Kyiv. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Sen. Jim Risch)

COMMENTARY

Idaho’s Sen. Risch could lead the effort to stop Trump’s Russian diesel policies. But will he?

By Rod Gramer

It is time for the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to speak up and become the leader that this dangerous period in history demands, writes guest columnist Rod Gramer.

MORE IDAHO NEWS FROM US

Idaho DEQ awards Island Park $1.4 million for drinking water project | Clark Corbin
2026 general election voter guide: The candidates, the ballot measures, and the tools you need to cast your vote. | Idaho Capital Sun staff

MORE NATIONAL NEWS FROM US

Ukrainians and Sudanese with temporary legal status will keep protections for now | Ariana Figueroa
With 2 weeks until midterms, analysts say Dems still on track to win US House majority | Jacob Fischler

ICYMI

Shining a light on other Idaho politics reporting

Note: Some links may lead to stories behind a news organization's paywall

Boise State Public Radio: In lives and homes, 2026 wildfire season exacted a high toll — and it’s not over yet
East Idaho News: District 35A to see election battle between first-time Republican legislator and Democratic opponent
Idaho News 6: Jerome schools closed Monday after weekend cyber attack targets district networks and demands ransom
Local News 8: Judge Sergio Gutierrez recognized as Pocatello unveils honorary street sign
Valley Lookout: Valley County Election Preview: Julie Thrower vs. Michael Weaver for Board of County Commissioners

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