Five counties of Oregon have become the latest to support seceding to Idaho.

 In total seven counties, Union, Baker, Grant, Lake, Malheur, Sherman, and Jefferson, have voted to support the grassroots “Greater Idaho” movement. Formally called, Move Oregon’s Border for a Greater Idaho, the movement’s goal is the proposed state of Greater Idaho to include all conservative counties in Oregon, Northeastern California, and Southern Washington. 

The movement started in 2020 as Oregon began having cultural shifts.  Protest and riots engulfed urban areas such as Portland in the summer. In November narcotics for personal use became legal. The pandemic caused many to lose their jobs and homelessness rose substantially at the same time. These issues have left many rural people of Oregon feeling like their values no longer in line with the states. 

Secession is not likely to occur but it is not an old idea. Movements such as the greater Idaho movement have existed in California and Texas for years. According to KTLA 5, Northern California and Southern Oregon states have considered joining to become the state of Jefferson since the 1940’s. In order to become a new state to leave the United States, a vote must be passed by congress.  It is highly unlikely in the current political climate.