Learn Where Representative Sauter Stands On The Issues

I believe that individuals are more adept at managing their finances than the government, I advocate for a government that prioritizes fiscal responsibility and efficiency, ensuring every taxpayer dollar is accounted for. 

Moreover, I have endorsed reducing property and income taxes where feasible. Your hard-earned money belongs to you, not the government, and should remain in your possession. 

Redistributing wealth is not the government's prerogative. While acknowledging the necessity of taxes in society, I contend that the government already imposes a significant burden and should focus on eliminating redundant and wasteful programs to alleviate this burden. Throughout my tenure, I've supported numerous bills aimed at tax relief, striving to lessen the tax load on the people of Idaho. 

The Idaho State Constitution directs the Legislature to establish and maintain a general, uniform and thorough system of public, free common schools. The framers of the Constitution noted the stability of a republican form of government depends mainly upon the intelligence of the people. 

Our public school system is one our greatest assets. Simply stated, our graduates are our future. If we believe in the power and value of each individual Idahoan, we must do our best to support their education. I support the efforts to improve our children’s education from kindergarten through university.

We need to give our graduates the education, tools and skills to contribute to their families, jobs and communities. In the past, many of our young graduates left our State for career jobs. With more Idaho development and an increasing number of work-from-home opportunities, our young graduates have the chance to apply their skills in their home state.

As a firefighter for over 30 years and retired Fire Chief, I recognize the indispensable roles of our Law Enforcement, Fire Service and EMS personnel in safeguarding our communities. As a lawmaker, I’m committed to upholding public safety and advocating for equipping these essential services with the resources necessary to respond effectively to emergencies.

My support extends beyond mere rhetoric; I stand against movements like "defund the police," My opposition is clear and uncompromising. I understand that these approaches threaten the very fabric of our safety.

I uphold the rights enshrined in the Second Amendment, recognizing the importance of responsible gun ownership in maintaining personal and collective security.

Our Community safety also depends on actions around our state and country. I recognize the significance of securing the southern border to mitigate the influx of illegal activities that pose threats to public safety. I have supported initiatives (Fentanyl and human trafficking Bills) aimed at bolstering border security measures while also addressing the underlying factors driving migration. By advocating for comprehensive solutions, I strive to minimize the adverse impacts of the border situation on our District and across the state and nation.

The job of an elected leader is to be a responsible representative. Understanding what the citizens think, know and need is paramount to good decision making and voting. For this understanding to occur, a representative must get out in the community and listen and ask. Developing an understanding of what is good for the constituents of Bonner and Boundary Counties is what I will do.

However, there is more to it. Pursuing legislation also requires an understanding and respect for the Idaho Constitution and the Constitution of the United States. For without this important alignment, improvement isn’t possible.

Another important element is the collaboration that must occur with other conservative elected officials. If decisions and policy are to be useful and to last, they need to be built on the foundation of our core values. 

We are witnessing a period of historic growth. Many have recently discovered what we have known for a long time. We live and work in an amazing place with wonderful people. Our call now is to manage the growth, to ensure the Idaho of the future maintains the fabric and beauty of today’s Idaho.

We are a property rights state. Most of our planning and zoning decisions reside with our cities and with the Bonner and Boundary County Commissioners. However, transportation, communications and utilities all play a vital role in maintaining our quality of life and in the growth of our state.

Infrastructure systems are the platform for progress and are essential for all residents, commerce and emergency services. When our elected conservative leaders from District 1 collaborate and support improvements for our area, we all benefit. 

MARK SAUTER FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE-DISTRICT 1 SEAT A

I am asking to continue to serve as your Representative. 

The Primary Election is May 21st; PLEASE VOTE!

I am running for re-election for office to continue my career of service. Serving our community is part of the fabric of our Country.

By listening to our voters and utilizing my conservative values I will responsibly and actively represent the interests of Bonner and Boundary Counties. I believe that our North Idaho core values are the foundation for collaborative solutions with other conservative officials which will work for the good of our District, and our best path forward.

I retired from the fire service after 30 years. As a retired Fire Chief, community volunteer, and family forester, I have the leadership ability, education and experience to represent our North Idaho communities.

I am a traditional conservative republican who believes in limited and effective government, the fair application of taxes, and balanced budgets. I am committed to supporting the foundations of our communities by promoting infrastructure and public education improvements and backing our public safety departments. I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and efficiency. I will balance what our communities need with what is good for District 1, what is constitutional and what is possible for us to manage and pay for. 

I’m asking for your support, your vote and a commitment to our common beliefs in responsible, representative governance.