Greater Idaho: When Oregon’s Red Counties Say “Bye, Blue”—But Salem Says “Nope”

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Hey folks, grab your popcorn because the saga of Greater Idaho is cooking hotter than a summer BBQ in Boise. Here’s the deal: a bunch of rural Oregon counties—yeah, the 13 red-hot rebels in Eastern Oregon—have voted to jump ship from liberal Oregon and hitch their wagons to conservative Idaho instead. Why? Because they want to live in a place where the rules fit their vibe—less Portland protest, more Idaho potatoes.

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Sounds simple, right? Not quite. Because Oregon’s state government, firmly planted in the blue camp, looks at Greater Idaho like it’s that annoying cousin who tries to sneak out past curfew. The legislature in Salem isn’t exactly rolling out the welcome mat—more like slamming the door every time the idea pops up.

Here’s where it gets juicy: these counties, covering a massive chunk of Oregon’s land but just a tiny slice of its population, are fed up with policies they see as out of touch. We’re talking about Oregon’s no-sales-tax and weed-friendly nirvana versus Idaho’s six-percent sales tax and “not on my watch” attitude toward recreational pot. Oh, and don’t forget the abortion politics tug-of-war.

So, what’s stopping their grand escape? Well, the Constitution isn’t easy on border switching. Both Oregon and Idaho legislatures, plus the U.S. Congress, have to give the thumbs-up. Currently, Idaho seems a bit more open to chatting about it; Oregon, not so much.

Cue the plot twist: some of these folks are even calling for federal intervention—yes, Uncle Sam, show up and sort out this family feud, please. Meanwhile, the drama keeps simmering with bills introduced (and mostly ignored) in the Oregon legislature, grassroots rallies, and the occasional phone call to former President Trump for a little extra muscle.

In plain English? Eastern Oregon wants out. Salem dithers. The feds might have to step in. And the rest of us get to watch political soap opera at its finest.

If you want to keep your finger on the pulse of Greater Idaho and all the wild political shenanigans across the Northwest (and beyond), do yourself a favor—subscribe to the CanAmericaNews newsletter. We bring the stories you want, in a voice you get, no extra political mumbo-jumbo. Stay informed. Stay entertained. Stay ready for whatever happens next.

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