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The Money Behind Kootenai County's Political Races: Who’s Calling the Shots?

County Commissioner Race: Big Players, Big Donations

The battle for Kootenai County commissioner is turning into a high-stakes financial showdown. John Padula is leading the charge, raking in $61,800—primarily from grassroots donors. But his challengers aren’t backing down.

• Julie Hensley has surpassed $10,000, drawing support from local businesses.
• Bruce Mattare has also cleared $10,000, with contributions from regional firms—even a Native American tribe stepped in.

Not every race is swimming in cash, though. The county clerk contest is a different beast—one candidate has barely $500, while the other hasn’t filed a single donation. Small money, small stakes?

Legislative Races: Corporate Cash and Political Puppeteers

Statehouse battles paint a clearer picture of who’s really in charge.

• Elaine Price pulled in $24,725, with PACs and energy companies fueling her campaign.
• Christa Hazel, her opponent, raised nearly $40,000, backed by farms and utility firms.
• Jordan Redman isn’t far behind, banking $23,550—mostly from businesses.

It’s no secret who holds the purse strings in these elections.

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Judicial Races: Big Donors, Small Battles

Judicial contests don’t see the same flood of money, but deep pockets still play a role.

• Ben Allen (District 1 judge) hauled in over $20,000, including donations from gun shops and developers.
• Lisa Chesebro, his opponent, managed $5,924—mostly from individual donors.

Even in smaller races, big money leaves its mark.

--- _{The Bottom Line: From commissioner seats to courthouses, Kootenai County’s political landscape is shaped by who writes the checks. The question is—does the public follow the money… or does the money follow the power?}