Shirts leaves legislature for federal role

 Idaho District 9 Representative John Shirts has resigned his seat in the Idaho Legislature following his appointment as United States Attorney for the District of Idaho. His resignation, effective Oct. 17, came just before he was sworn in to his new federal post on Sunday, Oct. 18, in a private ceremony conducted by U.S. Chief District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford in Boise.

 In a press release issued Monday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Attorney General Todd Blanche announced Shirts’ appointment, calling him “a fifth-generation Idahoan” with deep roots in Washington County. Shirts said he was honored to serve as Idaho’s next U.S. Attorney and pledged to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights by prosecuting terrorism, drug trafficking, violent crime, human trafficking, illegal immigration offenses, and fraud.

 “The safety of Idahoans and their communities is paramount,” Shirts said. “Those who commit federal crimes in our state will be held accountable and brought to justice.”

 Shirts grew up in Weiser and worked on his family’s ranch, homesteaded by his great-great-grandfather in the 1880s. He graduated from Weiser High School, earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Idaho, and his law degree from the University of Colorado. His career includes service as a JAG officer in the U.S. Air Force, where he prosecuted sexual assault cases worldwide, earning the Air Force Commendation Medal and Korean Defense Service Medal.

 Before his election to the Idaho House, Shirts served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in both the Boise and Pocatello offices from 2018 to 2024. In the Legislature, he was vice chair of the Agricultural Affairs Committee and served on the Judiciary, Rules and Administration, and Revenue and Taxation committees. He was running unopposed for a second term on the Nov. 3 ballot.

 In his resignation letter to Governor Brad Little, Shirts wrote that it had been “an honor to serve and represent the people of Washington, Payette, and Canyon counties,” and thanked the governor for his leadership.

 The Idaho Legislative District 9 Republican Committee has announced it is accepting applications to fill the vacancy. Applications may be submitted to Niki Houser – Idaho Legislative District 9 Republican Committee Secretary via e-mail to lilhouserfamily2@gmail.com or in person/via mail to 1336 W. 4th St., Weiser, Idaho 83672.

 Under Idaho Code §59-904A, the committee must submit three qualified nominees to the governor within 15 days. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Monday, October 26, and interviews will be held Wednesday, October 28, at 7 p.m. in the Payette County Courthouse.