Move over, potatoes. There’s a new starch-free identity taking over the Gem State, and it’s significantly louder.
In a move that surprised absolutely no one who has ever spent more than five minutes at a Boise gas station, Idaho has officially named hunting its state sport, according to a recent article via Outdoor Life. But because Idaho doesn’t do things by halves, they aren’t just stopping at the activity—they’re looking for the official hardware to match.
This November, Idahoans won’t just be voting for politicians; they’ll be acting as the state’s personal personal-shopper to select an Official State Gun.
The Nine-Year-Old Power Player
If you’re wondering how the “State Sport” bill gained such momentum, look no further than the high-stakes world of elementary school journalism. The initiative was spearheaded by Betty Grandy, a nine-year-old homeschooler and the media mogul behind The Grandy Gazette.
After polling her readers—who apparently favor camouflage over cleats—Betty concluded that hunting was the definitive winner. Lawmakers, perhaps intimidated by the editorial might of a fourth-grader, agreed. Governor Brad Little signed the bill with Betty hovering over his shoulder, presumably to ensure he didn’t misspell “freedom.”
As Betty sagely put it to the local news: “It’s a sport because you get out there and have fun… and it gets your body moving.” It’s a compelling argument: why chase a ball when you can chase dinner?
The Ballot Box (of Ammo)
Now that the sport is settled, the state has a bit of a “Product Placement” dilemma. House Bill 932 has set the stage for a November ballot measure that feels less like a civic duty and more like a history exam at a shooting range.
Voters will get to choose the state’s official piece of iron from a curated “Best Of” list that includes:
- The Winchester Model 1894: For the traditionalist who wants to look like a cowboy.
- The M1 Garand: For the history buff who likes that satisfying “ping.”
- The Colt M1911: For the person who believes 1911 was the peak of human achievement.
- The Remington 700: For the pragmatist who actually wants to hit the elk.
Don’t See Your Favorite? Call Your Rep.
In what might be the most “Idaho” legislative caveat of all time, Representative Jason Monks has noted that if your favorite boom-stick isn’t on the list, you shouldn’t despair. Citizens are encouraged to petition the legislative council to get their preferred make and model on the ballot.
So, if you feel strongly that the state gun should be a pink-glittered subcompact or a medieval crossbow (hey, hunting is hunting), now is your time to lobby.
Keeping Up with the Neighbors
Idaho joins ten other states in the “Official Gun” club. They’re following in the footsteps of Utah (Browning M1911) and Texas (1847 Colt Walker). However, while Utah balances its firepower with “Skiing and Snowboarding” as state sports, Idaho is staying strictly on-brand.