Lesser Idaho

The LESSER IDAHO Movement

Join the movement to relocate the Oregon/Idaho state line to make both states better.

Do you feel like you don't quite fit in with the rest of Idaho? Are you tired of being associated with conservative politics and potato farms? If so, you're not alone.

At the Lesser Idaho Movement, we believe it's time to return parts of Idaho to their rightful home: Oregon. After all, these areas were historically a part of the Oregon Territory and share more in common with their western neighbor than their eastern one.

Join us in advocating for smaller boundaries and a truer representation of our identity. Let's embrace our unique culture and values, and stop pretending to be something we're not.

Whether you're a creative type, an intellectual, or simply someone who enjoys a good craft beer, Lesser Idaho is for you. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed, join our community forums to share your thoughts, or donate to support our cause.

It's time for a change. It's time for Lesser Idaho.

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Why Western Idaho is More Like Oregon and Should Join the State

Idaho is currently a relatively small state in terms of population and political influence. Joining Oregon could give Idahoans more clout in national politics, since they would be part of a larger state with more representatives and electoral votes.

  • Shared Geography: Western Idaho and Eastern Oregon share a similar landscape, with mountains, forests, and rivers. This region also has a more moderate climate than the rest of Idaho, with milder winters and more rainfall.
  • Cultural Similarities: Western Idaho and Eastern Oregon share a similar culture and lifestyle. Both areas have a strong appreciation for the arts, local food and drinks, and outdoor recreation. Boise is a hub of culture and innovation in recent years, attracting a young and diverse population akin it's Oregonian neighbors. In contrast to the more conservative, rural areas of Idaho, Western Idaho has a more progressive and urban population.
  • Economic Interdependence: Western Idaho has strong economic ties to Eastern Oregon, particularly in the areas of agriculture and tourism. The Boise metro area, for example, is a major economic hub that straddles the Idaho-Oregon border. Joining Oregon would make sense from an economic standpoint, and would strengthen regional cooperation.
  • Historical Context: Western Idaho was originally a part of the Oregon Territory, and was only separated from it due to political decisions made in the 1860s. Joining Oregon would be a recognition of its historical roots and help correct a long-standing historical error.
  • Political Alignment: Western Idaho is increasingly at odds with the conservative politics of the rest of Idaho. In recent years, Boise has emerged as a liberal-leaning city, with a growing progressive population that feels out of place in a state that has traditionally been conservative. Joining Oregon would allow Western Idaho to align with its more progressive values.
  • Improved Infrastructure: A larger state would have a bigger tax base, which could be used to improve infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and public transportation. This could make it easier for people and goods to move around the state, leading to greater economic growth and improved quality of life.
  • Geographic Continuity: Western Idaho shares a similar geography and climate with Eastern Oregon, including mountains, forests, and rivers. The region also has a more moderate climate than the rest of Idaho, with milder winters and more rainfall. Proponents of joining Oregon argue that these shared geographic features make the region a natural fit with Oregon, and that it would make sense from a geographic standpoint to join the state.
  • We believe that Western Idaho is more like Oregon than Idaho and that it's time for the region to join the state of Oregon. Join us in advocating for a new "Lesser Idaho" that truly represents our unique identity and values.
Oregon Territory
Jeramiah Greenleaf's map of Oregon Territory

At the Lesser Idaho Movement, we are committed to building a community of like-minded people who share our vision for a better future for western Idaho. Whether you're a lifelong resident of Boise or a newcomer to the region, we welcome you to join us in this exciting and important effort.

To get involved, sign up for our newsletter, follow us on social media, or join the discussion on our community forums. Together, we can make a difference and create a better future for western Idaho.

We need your help to move the State Line!