John Shirts

John Shirts was born in Nampa, Idaho. Shirts' served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve beginning in 2014. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Idaho in 2009.His career experience includes working as a military officer.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

John Shirts is a 5th generation Idahoan, raised working on his family’s ranch. His great-great- grandfather homesteaded in Washington County in the 1880s. John attended Weiser High School and worked his way through the University of Idaho. After college, he graduated from the University of Colorado Law School. John then clerked for the Honorable Jonathan P. Brody, an Idaho District Court judge in Rupert.

Following his clerkship, he earned a commission in the U.S. Air Force as a JAG officer. During his active-duty service, John served in Korea as an adviser to the 51st Fighter Wing on Osan Air Base. Later appointed to the Air Force’s Special Victims Unit (SVU), he prosecuted sexual assault cases at thirty Air Force bases around the world, from Germany to Hawaii. His military decorations include the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Korean Defense Service Medal.

After leaving active duty, John was appointed as an Assistant United States Attorney under the Trump administration. He served as a federal prosecutor in Idaho, convicting illegal alien drug traffickers and child predators. He also used the GI Bill to attend Harvard University’s Extension School, graduating with a Master’s in International Relations. He continues to serve as a prosecutor in the Air Force Reserve.

John is married to Mercedes Shirts, a high school teacher. They spend their time on the family ranch in Weiser.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Law Enforcement / Veterans

Idaho’s law enforcement and veterans make incredible personal sacrifices. John will always back the blue. Upholding the law, doubling down on law and order and pushing for mandatory minimum sentences for those who deal deadly fentanyl will keep Idahoans safe. John knows that committing the needed resources and funding to law enforcement helps them keep us safe.

John will fight just as hard for Idaho’s veterans. A veteran himself, John knows that those who have served deserve our utmost respect for their dedication to our country. After leaving active duty, John was appointed as an Assistant United States Attorney under the Trump Administration and continues to serve as a prosecutor in the Air Force Reserve.Fiscal

Maintaining low taxes, cutting regulations, and eliminating government waste is essential for protecting the limited government ways that has made Idaho great. John is a fiscal conservative who understands that low government spending allows more freedom for Idaho families. Keeping government oversight in check allows individuals to prosper, leading to economic growth and job creation for Idahoans. Safeguarding free-market policies will empower businesses and entrepreneurs, and foster innovation and competition keeping Idaho’s economy strong for decades to come.Protecting Idaho Agriculture

John grew up as a 5th generation Idahoan working on his family’s ranch. Idaho farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our state and contribute to keeping our state and nation prosperous. Unfortunately, agriculture is under attack from liberals in Boise and Washington DC. John will fight to stop agriculture killing policies and protect our water.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Pro-Life / Pro-Gun

Idaho has always been a state that defends the sanctity of life and the fundamental rights enshrined in the Second Amendment. John is staunchly pro-life and will advocate for policies that protect the unborn and promote a culture of life.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity and service.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

John Shirts is a 5th generation Idahoan, raised working on his family’s ranch.