Julie VanOrden is a dedicated public servant and a member of the Republican Party. She was born in Pocatello, Idaho, and is a lifelong resident of Idaho and Bingham counties. She graduated from Blackfoot High School and earned her associate degree from Idaho State University’s vocational technical school.
Before her political career, she co-owned Garth VanOrden Farms. She has been a member of the Idaho State Representative since 2012, representing District 31 in Seat B. She served in this position until November 30, 2018. During her tenure, she was the chairman of the Education committee. She was also a commissioner on the Idaho Public Charter School Commission and the Idaho Potato Commission.
In the 2018 primary election, Julie VanOrden was defeated by Julianne Young, a political activist, home-educator, and stay-at-home mother of 10 children. Young campaigned against VanOrden’s efforts to update Idaho sex education statue which dated by to the 1970s.
In July 2018, Rep. VanOrden was appointed by Idaho House Speaker Scott Bedke to serve a four-year term on the Idaho Public Charter School Commission. The commission oversees the regulation of charter schools in the State of Idaho.
She assumed office as a member of the Idaho Senate from District 30 on December 1, 2022. She was preceded by Kevin Cook due to redistricting. Her current term ends on December 1, 2024.
Throughout her political career, she has shown a strong commitment to her constituents and has worked tirelessly to represent their interests. She continues to serve the people of Idaho with dedication and integrity.
