Here's what people are saying about The Common Interest.

Governor Butch Otter (Republican-Star):
     "The Common Interest already has proven itself to be a valuable resource on issues of public policy. There is an important place in any public policy discussion for a well-researched, facts-based voice of reason. We may not always agree, but the essence of sound public policy is open discussion and constructive disagreement that leads to better ways of empowering individuals and communities to succeed."

Senator Brad Little, Majority Caucus Chairman, Idaho Senate (Republican--Emmett):
     "Legislators continually require three things. Creative new ideas, a sense of what our constituents either desire or detest, and good information; The Common Interest has been a good source of all three."

Senator Bart Davis, Majority Leader, Idaho Senate (Republican--Idaho Falls):
     "I have found that various lobbying groups take a narrow focus to solving Idaho's complex problems. Often their solution is the solution from a singular point of view. The "Common Interest," however, focuses on the issue, studies the various points of view, then reflects back to the legislature a reasoned opinion of Idahoans. I have found this approach to be more helpful to the legislative process."

Representative Wendy Jaquet, Minority Leader, Idaho House of Representatives (Democrat--Ketchum):
     "The analysis that the Common Interest presents to us is complete and informative and offers us in many cases data and opinion in opposition to what is presented and often biased to one side in committee. Idaho Legislators are citizen legislators which means that we must do our own research, try to obtain information on issues in a very short time at the Idaho Legislature. The Common Interest is a wonderful addition to the mix!"

Senator Brent Hill, Chairman, Senate Local Government & Taxation Committee (Republican--Rexburg):
     "How refreshing it is to work with an organization that is truly nonpartisan and reaches out to educate and involve all citizens in the Idaho political process! The Common Interest has become a trusted source of information, public opinion, and balanced reporting for the members of the Idaho Legislature. The Common Interest focuses on important bills, providing pros and cons of each issue. Our lives in Idaho are greatly affected by The Common Interest and its members. I, for one, am very grateful that the effect has been such a positive one!"

Senator Shawn Keough, (Republican-Sandpoint):
     "As I have watched the organization evolve I have become impressed with the work that is done, the quality of the analysis, and the dedication of the participants in the organization to take time to research, understand all sides of an issue and then come to a decision on a position on some very complex issues that we face in Idaho. I have come to look on The Common Interest as one of the credible resources I utilize to measure how Idahoans are thinking about our important issues and what they think are the resolutions to those issues. I would encourage anyone to become involved in The Common Interest for the in-depth analysis on complex issues of the moment and the opportunity to become involved in a process in which the outcomes are seriously considered by lawmakers and policy leaders."

Dan Popkey, columnist, Idaho Statesman, May 7, 2006:
     "As your homeowners' exemption climbs and shields you from property tax increases in years to come, credit a fledgling group of independents who have swiftly become players at the Legislature. If you're an independent voter looking for an alternative, check out TheCommonInterest.org. I think you'll be impressed."

Greg Hahn, reporter, Idaho Statesman, listed The Common Interest #2 in a story entitled "The Session's Movers and Shakers: Every year at the Statehouse, a few folks rise to the top," April 1, 2007.
      He discussed The Common Interest's contribution under the heading, "True Bipartisanship can be uncommon."

Jim Weatherby, BSU professor emeritus and KTVB political analyst, discussed The Common Interest's primary election proposal on Idaho Public Television's Idaho Reports, March 11, 2007:
     "[The bill to retain independents' ability to vote in primary elections] is a contribution of Keith Allred and The Common Interest. Last year The Common Interest proposed the housing price index for the homeowners' exemption. This year they're coming in and perhaps providing a solution that really needs to be addressed. Hopefully, [the Legislature] will bow to the independents which are about 30% of the electorate in Idaho and give them an opportunity to participate."
     You can view the program by clicking on the link below. To view the portion of the program that discusses The Common Interest's role in primary election issue, go to the 15 minute, 45 second mark in the program. CLICK HERE to view the program.