Connor Cook Announces Campaign for Idaho Legislature

Idaho Falls, Idaho — Republican Firefighter/ Paramedic Connor Cook announces his candidacy for the Idaho State Legislature in Legislative District 33. 

Connor Cook, a third generation Idahoan, said his decision to run comes from a growing concern that Idaho is drifting away from practical governance and toward political distraction at a time when real challenges demand steady leadership.

“Idaho families are facing real issues: rising costs, aging infrastructure, workforce shortages, and increasing demand on public safety,” Cook said. “We don’t need political noise. We need leadership that is focused on governing well and being honest, responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.” 

Cook’s campaign will center on four key priorities:

Public Safety and Strong Communities

Idaho must fully support law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel while ensuring communities have the resources to respond to growth and emerging threats.

Our first responsibility is protecting our communities. 

That means: stable funding, focus on recruitment and retention, smart planning, and leadership that understands what happens on the front lines.

Education & Workforce Development

Our children are our future, and Idaho cannot attract businesses or keep young families here if we fail to prepare ALL of our young people for skilled trades, healthcare careers, and promising technology jobs.

Education is not a talking point, it is the key to a strong economy. Idaho’s economic future depends on strong public schools and expanded career and technical training.

That means: supporting public-private partnerships through expanded apprenticeship programs, strengthening local control for school districts, and supporting our teachers.

Infrastructure & Responsible Growth

Because Idaho, especially Eastern Idaho, is experiencing rapid growth, the Legislature must prioritize investment in roads, water systems, and long-term planning. We have aging infrastructure that must be maintained and replaced. And we have to fund new structures and facilities necessitated by growth. If we don’t invest wisely now, taxpayers will pay more later.

That means: smarter long-term planning, cutting red tape, partnering with the private sector and local governments to ensure that growth pays for growth.

Fiscal Discipline & Accountability

The public dollars spent by the State of Idaho are dollars earned by Idaho families, and that is not a responsibility to take lightly.

State government must be efficient, transparent, and accountable. We must cut waste, prioritize essential services, and stop chasing distractions.

That means: eliminating waste and duplication in state programs, ensuring taxpayer dollars deliver real results, and investing in policies that keep Idaho’s economy strong.

“Idaho is strong,” Cook said, “but we are not immune to challenges. I’m running because I believe we can do better. I’ve spent my career stepping into difficult situations and finding solutions. I know what it takes to focus and prioritize. I’m grateful for the opportunities and support this community has given me, and I look forward to representing Idaho Falls at the Statehouse with that same sense of responsibility and gratitude.”

Media Inquiries: media@connorcook4idaho.com