Oregon’s Fault Lines and the Greater Idaho Movement
Introduction
Oregon’s ideological divide, highlighted during the anti-police riots of 2020, is resurfacing as the Greater Idaho movement seeks to separate the state’s conservative eastern counties from the progressive urban centers.
Eastern Oregon’s Discontent
According to Matt McCaw, executive director of the Greater Idaho movement, the movement aims to amplify the voices of Eastern Oregon residents who feel misrepresented by the state legislature. He urges lawmakers to respect the wishes of these voters and initiate border changes.
Historical Precedents
Similar secession attempts in US history have yielded mixed results. West Virginia successfully seceded from Virginia during the Civil War, while efforts to cede Staten Island from New York City have been unsuccessful.
HB 3844 and the Idaho Border
State Rep. Mark Owens introduced HB 3844, which establishes a task force to assess the effects of shifting the Idaho-Oregon border to incorporate 13 eastern Oregon counties. The task force must report its findings to the Oregon legislature.
Momentum of the Greater Idaho Movement
The Greater Idaho movement has gained traction since 2020, with local measures being voted on across the state. The movement’s supporters argue that dividing Oregon would align political boundaries with established majorities and reduce tensions.
Similar Movements in Other States
Efforts to redraw state lines are not unique to Oregon. In Illinois, a proposal seeks to transfer rural counties to Indiana, while in Iowa, counties aligning with the Hawkeye State aim to join it.
Governor’s Response
Neither Idaho’s Republican Governor Brad Little nor Oregon’s Democratic Governor Tina Kotek has commented on the border change proposal.
Successful Secession Attempts
West Virginia remains the only successful example of secession in US history. Its separation from Virginia was driven by the desire to remain in the Union during the Civil War.
Staten Island’s Secession Movement
Staten Island, a borough of New York City, has long sought to secede. A 1993 referendum supported separation, but the proposal was rejected by the state legislature. Recent political developments have reignited the secession debate.
Disparities and Division
The Greater Idaho movement reflects the growing disparities and division within Oregon. Eastern counties feel underrepresented and believe that a separation would provide them with more autonomy and local control.
Challenges and Uncertainties
The success of the Greater Idaho movement depends on overcoming numerous legal and political hurdles. Interstate compacts are required for border adjustments, and the current Oregon legislature is likely to oppose the proposal.
Conclusion
The Greater Idaho movement is a testament to the ideological fault lines that divide Oregon and the nation as a whole. While the movement’s success is uncertain, it highlights the growing tensions between rural and urban areas and the challenges of accommodating diverse political perspectives within a single state.
