Hailey Lewis Elected as Moscow’s New Mayor with Strong Community Support

The city of Moscow welcomed its new mayor, Hailey Lewis, following her victory on November 7, 2023. Lewis, a lifelong resident of Moscow, secured the position by defeating incumbent Alex Simon and will officially take office in January, succeeding Art Bettge, who is retiring.

Expressing her excitement over the win, Lewis stated, “I’m just so over the moon.” She emphasized her commitment to the community that has played a significant role in her life. “Moscow has given me many opportunities, and I appreciate being able to give back through public service,” she added.

Lewis’s background in Moscow is extensive. She attended Lena Whitmore Elementary School, Moscow Junior High School, and served as the Associated Student Body president at Moscow High School. Currently employed at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, she has been a member of the Moscow City Council since 2021.

New Councilors Join Lewis in Leadership

In addition to Lewis, three new city councilors were elected: Evan Holmes, Sage McCetich, and Scott Sumner. Their election signifies a shift in the council’s dynamics. The incumbent Gina Taruscio finished in fourth place, highlighting a notable change in leadership. Lewis expressed confidence in the city’s ability to onboard new councilors, stating that all elected candidates have prior experience on Moscow citizen commissions.

She aims to cultivate a “cohesive team rowing in the same direction” to achieve the city’s goals. Furthermore, Lewis intends to utilize her position to enhance public understanding of municipal processes and the challenges facing Moscow.

Record Voter Turnout Indicates Civic Engagement

The recent election saw a significant increase in voter participation, with 42% turnout, as reported by Latah County Auditor Julie Fry. This figure notably exceeds the 27% turnout recorded during the last off-year election in 2023. Fry remarked on the community’s engagement, noting that early voting attracted 2,289 participants, indicating heightened interest in local governance.

Fry mentioned that her office would engage with the Idaho Secretary of State’s Office to address two particularly close races that may require recounts. In one such race for the Juliaetta City Council, candidates Richard Tackett and Amanda Fletcher are separated by just one vote, with Tackett receiving 76 votes and Fletcher 75.

Additionally, the race for the Moscow Cemetery District is closely contested. Current results show Cindy Tubb leading with 2,394 votes, followed by Bethanne Broux with 2,355 votes.

As Moscow prepares for this new chapter under Lewis’s leadership, the community looks forward to the initiatives and changes she will bring to the city.