BY KAREN BOSSICK

Idaho Rep. Sally Toone, who represents District 26, has been selected Outstanding Elected Democratic Woman Holding Public Office by the National Federation of Democratic Women.

The award was presented at the Annual Convention Gala on June 11, and Toone was presented with the  honorary plaque at the Blaine County Democrats Summer Picnic on Wednesday.

Idaho Democratic Women Caucus President, Gini Ballou said that Toone is someone who has supported the people of Idaho and “has shown the power of the minority when it sticks together.”

“I’m so thankful that we have terrific mentors and leaders…to guide and support us through the challenging and difficult work we are determined to do for our constituents,” added Rep. Muffy Davis, who serves alongside Toone at the Idaho Capitol.

Toone, who lives in Gooding, is a master educator, teaching for over 37 years. She was named Mentor of the Year by BSU’s College of Education in 2012. She currently is the Idaho House Minority Caucus Chair and serves on the Agricultural Affairs, Commerce & Human Resources, Education and Ways and Means committees. 

“Sally methodically, relentlessly works legislation through the layers of obstacles required to make good policy,” said Sen. Minority Leader Michelle Stennett, who also represents District 26. She pushes through partisanship with a clear vision and a willingness to bring all parties together, but she does not tolerate foolishness or untruthfulness. She is a warrior.”

Gini Ballou, who lives in Hailey was elected third vice president of the National Federation of Democratic Women during its business meeting. She has served as IDWC president since 2018 and been involved with the caucus since 2008.

Ketchum’s Wendy Jaquet, former representative and House Minority Leader, helped form the IDWC alongside other women wanting to have more voice in Idaho politics.

The National Federation, which is celebrating 50 years this year, has member organizations in 32 states, plus Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.