Boise, Idaho – Sue Chew, currently the longest serving Democrat in Idaho’s legislature, announced that after 18 years of service to House District 17, she will be retiring. Throughout the past two decades, Sue has worked on the Health and Welfare, Commerce and Human Resources, Education, and Environment, Energy, and Technology (EET) committees.
“I will be retiring from the Legislature after this term,” said Chew. “I am eternally grateful to have been the voice of District 17 for so long. In my retirement I will stay active in my community and continue to serve my neighbors through my engagement with the Idaho Chinese Organization, the Native American Coalition of Boise (NACOB), the National Organization of Women, and the Idaho Caretakers Association.”
The press conference had remarks speaking to Representative Chew’s accomplishments and impact on the community by her running mate, John Gannon, and House Minority Leader, Ilana Rubel.
“Sue has been an outstanding advocate for the Boise Bench and provided help, service, and advice to hundreds of Bench residents as a representative,” said D17 Rep Gannon.
The event concluded with the surprise announcement that Sue has endorsed educator Natalie MacLachlan to fill the seat.
“It has been my great honor to serve with Rep. Sue Chew for 9 years,” said Minority Leader Rubel. “She sets the example for compassion and dedication in a public servant, and I am so grateful that Natalie MacLachlan is stepping up to run for this seat. She has shown that she will work to understand and represent the needs of Idahoans, and she shares Rep. Chew’s absolute commitment to quality public education, healthcare access, public lands protection and justice for all.”
“I am thrilled to endorse Natalie MacLachlan as my successor and the next candidate for Idaho House Seat B in District 17,” said Chew. “Natalie is deeply connected to labor and as an educator will continue to engage and protect the next generation. I know that she will carry on my legacy and do the work of the people.”
“It is such an honor to be endorsed to fill this seat and entrusted with the work Sue is so passionate about,” said MacLachlan. “I am committed to being a voice for everyday Idahoans and striving to make this state more safe, fair, and affordable for all of us.”
