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Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
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RGONAUT For, of and by the students since 1898
Combatting UI enrollment drop UI lowers GPA requirement Olivia Maggs ARGONAUT For the first time in five years, UI is facing an enrollment decline in both domestic students and international students. Dean Kahler, vice provost for Strategic Enrollment Management, discussed some of the solutions that the university has put in place to combat the declining enrollment rate in an interview with the Argonaut. Leading this initiative is the changing of the testing requirements. Kahler said this change was based around the question all universities face, “What is the best indicator that a student is going to be successful with us?” Overall enrollment dropped by 0.9% in Fall 2026, from 12,383 students in Fall 2025 to 12,275 students in Fall 2026. “The university feels confident that anyone with a 2.6 or above would be successful at the university,” Kahler said. They have found ACT and SAT scores are not the best indicator of student success. The university is joining the rest of Idaho, and the other 86% of colleges in the US that are test optional. UI is now a test optional
school for anyone above a 2.6 GPA. If a person has over a 2.6 unweighted GPA, then they are automatically admitted. This has been lowered as previously applicants had to have a 3.0 to be automatically admitted. Individuals who have below a 2.6 GPA will still be required to submit SAT, ACT or ISAT scores and will be admitted into the Vandal Gateway program. This program is designed to usher first year students into college and provide extra support. The enrollment rate for international students has dropped significantlly, by 21.6%, from 421 to 330. Two years ago, the university had 200 new international freshmen, while this year they only had 39. More and more people are feeling “afraid to come to the United States [and] feeling unwelcome,” Kahler said. Additionally, many other people have been unable to get Visas. With low numbers of international students, domestic students are getting the “short end of the stick,” because they are unable to “study with people from other countries and learn about the different cultures … and that is an important part of education” and “going to a college campus gives people exposure to learn from 70 other countries.”
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
Junior Ella Uriarte defends the ball from a player on Saint Martin’s. Read more about the game on page 10
Students “disappointed and discouraged for the future” Prop 1 results garner mixed reactions Olivia Maggs ARGONAUT UI students showed up in large numbers to vote in the Nov. 3 midterm elections. One of the most widely discussed topics was Proposition 1. Prop 1 failed by 55.9% of votes, and 44.1% voted to pass the measure, according AP News. In Latah County,
Prop 1 received a 53.95% yes vote, and a 46.05% no vote. There have been several mixed reactions among students, with some being grateful for its failure, while others are left feeling disappointed. Student Mei James expressed in an Argonaut interview that she is “disappointed and discouraged for the future of Idaho.” Through her discussions with other people about Prop 1, she found that many “opinions that were against Proposition 1 were
rooted in misinformation, and Proposition 1 was necessary to secure women’s right to healthcare.” Another student, Kelsie Dechard added that she is “disappointed, and it should not be up to people who the proposition does not directly affect to decide its fate”. TK Barker discussed that “it was an expected loss, but disappointing because we got so close,” but he noted that it was “amazing progress for Idaho” and people are starting to understand the importance
of voting. Student John Bueno was disappointed but saw “positive progress for politics in Idaho” from the closeness of the vote but, “it seemed more disappointing” than what the rest of the United States saw during their midterms. Prop 1, continued on page 3.
For more on midterm election results, see the Argonaut’s coverage starting on page 3.
Week of remembrance to begin on Nov. 9 In honor of the King Road Homicides, Veteran’s Day Josie Adjanohoun ARGONAUT Cooper Molinengo | Argonaut
The Vandal Healing Garden is located in front of the Old Arboretum
John Keegan | Argonaut
Students gather in 2025 to commemorate the four students who passed three years prior
UI is holding a week of remembrance and kindness from Monday Nov. 9 through Friday Nov. 13, in honor of Veteran’s Day, and the four years that have passed since the King Road Homicides. For Veteran’s Day, a wreath-laying ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11 on the northwest corner of the Admin Building Lawn. Events will be held throughout the week, in remembrance of the four students lost on Nov. 13, Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves. The UI community is
encouraged to complete four acts of kindness, which they can write on boards posted around campus. A food and school supplies drive will be held throughout the week as well, donating food to the Vandal Food pantry, and supplies to local schools. Drop off locations will be held at the Pitman Center, ISUB, and Shoup Hall. At noon on Friday Nov. 13, a remembrance ceremony will be held at the Vandal Healing Garden and Memorial, to recognize the impact that the loss of Kernodle, Chapin, Mogen, and Gonclaves has had on the UI community. Throughout the day on Friday, the Red Star Coffee Company, at the intersection of Line and Third Street, will donate their sales to the four foundations established in memory of the students. On Monday, Nov. 9, a three-on-three basketball tournament will be held
from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Physical Education Building Large Gym. Teams of four can register. The entry fee is $20 per team donated to the namesake groups founded in honor of the late students. The foundations established in honor of the passed students include the following: The Made with Kindness Foundation, established in honor of Madison Mogen and Xana Kernodle, provides scholarships and resources for girls wanting to step into leadership. The Murder Has a Name Foundation, funds advanced forensic DNA testing in violent crime investigations, in honor of Kaylee Goncalves. The Ethan’s Smile Foundation, created in honor of Ethan Chapin, gives scholarships to high school seniors. The Vandal Healing Garden and Memorial Endowment is run through the UI Foundation.
IN THIS ISSUE
One World Cafe open-mic night offers connection
Prinos-Grumbach: An asset in the assist department
LIFE, 6 News, 1-4
Life, 6-7
Sports, 9-11
Gallery, 8
Committee for new UI president is not representative
SPORTS, 9 Opinion, 13-15
OPINION, 13 University of Idaho
Volume 129, Issue no. 4
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Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
Newly commissioned Army officer talks about UI expirence Heidi Sellmann interviewed for veteran’s day feature Abigail Hale ARGONAUT
Heidi Sellmann, a newly commissioned Army Officer and University of Idaho alumni, attributes her journey in medicine to UI. After she finished her undergrad in Biology in 2022 from Lewis and Clark State College, Sellmann attended UI, achieving her masters in nutritional sciences in 2024, when she grad-
uated. Now, Sellmann attends the University of Washington WWAMI program to continue her path to her medical degree. The decision for wanting to work with the community, instead of focusing on research, stemmed from a medicine-focused mission trip to Guatemala. Sellmann worked as a medical assistant within Moscow, Idaho, which also helped contribute to the desire to work with the community rather than remaining research oriented. UI helped aid Sellmann in her medical
experience journey. Through the UI nutrition degree path, Sellmann said she learned a lot about nutrition that she didn’t previously know about, and that her experience with the nutrition degree path through UI has provided her with a deeper perspective and understanding towards the degree she is currently working towards now. Sellmann was commissioned around Labor Day to the United States Army, and has no prior military experience, but that isn’t stopping her from pursuing her degree and continue serving her community.
If anything, it adds to the sense of purpose she feels to continue with her chosen degree path, even through the nerves of a new experience. After she obtains her degree, she will go to residency school through the military instead of attending a civilian residency school, then attend officer training, before serving her time with the United States Army as a physician. When describing her expierence, Sellmann said, “if it both intrigues you and terrifies you, you should probably pursue it.”
News Team ARGONAUT
ASUI fall senate elections to be held Nov. 9-11 The Associated Students of the University of Idaho Fall 2026 senate elections are open for three days, starting on Nov. 9 and ending on Nov. 11 at 4 p.m. ASUI voting is held online through an email survey that will be sent out to students on Nov. 9. There are 20 confirmed candidates running for four available senate seats. The candidates are GiGi Mummery, Dylan Trigg, Fatima Arteaga,
Yessica Ramirez, Farhadul Islam Shanto, Cash Paterson, Cameron Marlowe, Londyn Higgins, Paige Stranahan, Happiness Rukundo, Tyson Vanderpas, Adan Machette, Jackson Kirkwood, Valeria Joaquin Moreno, Jed Rajala, Samantha Parsons, Alejandra Vega-Flores, and Anne Cunyas. To learn more about each of their platforms, read their campaign bios on uiargonaut.com, Saturday, Nov. 7.
“Feminism is a cancer” event to be held on campus
Cooper Molinengo | Argonaut
Senators Isiaias Vera-Ramirez, Rainey Roecker, and Scarlett Cromwell listen to presenter at Nov. 4, ASUI Senate meeting, see recap on uiargonaut.com
The State of Idaho sues OpenAI over concerns of child safety AG states company lied about ChatGPT David Galindo ARGONAUT
On October 14, the Idaho state government, under the guidance of Attorney General Raúl Labrador, filed a civil lawsuit against OpenAI, the developers of ChatGPT, over allegations that the company had purposefully misled Idaho parents regarding the safety of their flagship chatbot to users, particularly children. “The expansion of artificial intelligence capabilities must not come at the expense of consumer protections,” Labrador said in a press release. He suggests that OpenAI has been prioritizing its rapid growth over preventing harm to its users, many of whom are children.
The company has been skyrocketing in market share and revenue since launching ChatGPT in late 2022, becoming the kingpin of the exponentially expanding AI market. The 107-page suit comments on Sam Altman, on which it notes that the controversial CEO of OpenAI “has been described by his own family members, friends and colleagues as “unconstrained by truth,” “deceptive,” “manipulative,” and “low integrity.” Originally founded as a non-profit, OpenAI has aggressively expanded into for-profit endeavors and in 2025 transformed into a “public benefit corporation,” or a for-profit company that on paper aims to have a positive benefit on society. ChatGPT has long been accused of harming users’ critical thinking abilities and of offering professional advice that it is unqualified to provide.
“ChatGPT has successfully coached numerous users to commit suicide or to harm or even kill other people,” claims page 5 of the lawsuit. The chatbot has been implicated in an increasing number of cases for providing resources or encouragement to users planning to harm themselves or others, even being used in planning by a shooter at Florida State University and another in the town of Tumbler Ridge, Canada. OpenAI has often denied allegations regarding ChatGPT and
affirms that it considers user safety a major priority. OpenAI’s agents and models have also been involved in several major breaches and hacks; Quite infamously in July 2026, over 1,200 OpenAI-developed agents went rogue and breached Hugging Face, a website that hosts user-created machine learning models. It was the first incident where a group of AI agents had collectivized, operated maliciously and attempted to avoid human detection. “OpenAI was not even aware of its agents’ activities until after the FBI had been alerted,” claims page 90 of the suit. The state government and Labrador’s lawsuit is not the first and certainly not the last case against OpenAI, a company that grows further controversial the further it grows outright.
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Idaho’s suit arrived on the same day of seven other states: Arizona, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska and West Virginia. These states, and later Texas, joined Florida in a civil campaign against OpenAI, who have all accused OpenAI of callously disregarding the safety of its users, leading to real-world harm.
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The conservative, nonprofit educational organization, Leadership Institute, is coming to the University of Idaho as part of its “Free to Speak” tour. The event taking place on campus as part of the tour is controversially titled “Feminism is a cancer.” The speakers are Seth Gruber and Joshua Haymes, and the event itself is locally hosted by Turning Point USA. The event is set to take place on Nov. 19 at the
Bruce M. Pitman Center from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.. The Leadership Institute describes its purpose as “recruiting, training, and putting conservatives” in the roles of government, politics, and media on its information page. The “Free to Speak” tour, taking place from Sep. 2025 through Dec. 2026, seems to be an effort of the organization to align with its purpose in training conservative speakers.
UI to host fourth annual POPtalks today On Thursday, November 5th, at 3:30-4:30 p.m., the university will be hosting its fourth annual Power of Possibility Talks in the International Ballroom of the Pitman Center. The talks include eight faculty at the university who have researched into a variety of topics ranging from AI to human movement. The event gives speakers the opportunity to present their research in four-minute presentations, which the audience will then use to determine
which researches will receive the grand prize for the evening: $2,500. All in-person and online attendees will have an opportunity to vote for their preferred program. Additionally, two students who attend the event in person will be entered to win a $1,000 dollar scholarship. Event speakers include Barrie Robinson, Leda Kobziar, Marz Everett, Tom Jacobsen, Joshua Bailey, Colin Xu, Nicholas Coombs, and Andy Kliskey.
Student rec center to host annual ski swap Thursday The University of Idaho’s Annual Outdoor Equipment Sale & Swap will be held on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, 6:00– 8:00 p.m. at the University of Idaho Student Recreation Center. The Ski Swap is a commu-
nity event which is a long-running tradition for buying and selling winter gear, hosted by the UI Outdoor Program. The event is open to students, families and local outdoor retailers.
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Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
Prop 1 continued from page 1 Several other students held differing viewpoints and were happy that it failed, though many chose to remain anonymous.
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Student Chase Carter is “very glad that proposition has failed, because we are having a massive decline in children being born, and we are having a massive decline in people wanting to become parents. And a lot of people are not being responsible with how they handle sex or birth.
These kids are our future, and they are the next generation, and they need to be nourished and cherished.” Among some of the anonymous opinions from students were, “if you get pregnant then it is your fault.” They expressed that there “are many ways to
prevent pregnancy and people need to be responsible.” These students also said that “there should be exceptions for rape and incest like Idaho already has.” Prop 1 was a voterled ballot initiative that aimed to restore reproductive rights and add
exceptions to Idaho’s abortion ban, which remains the strictest in the country. Prop 1 would have legalized abortion up to fetal viability, in contrast to Idaho’s current law, which outlaws abortion in all cases with no exceptions. Contrary to popular
belief, there are no exceptions for rape and incest in the abortion bill that was passed, rather legal defenses that fall on the doctors to prove that one of these defenses applied to their case.
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut Students casting their vote for the 2026 midterm election
Students respond to ballot initatives four and six Students took amusement with state gun question Riley Thompson ARGONAUT
Students interviewed by the Argonaut offering mixed feelings on the results of ballot questions regarding legislative power and making English the official language of Idaho. In interviews with students, at least one question was mentioned as ridiculous and a funny thing to see on the ballot. The house advisory question of which firearm should be the state gun of Idaho was a topic that seemed to invoke laughter among those interviewed. On this question, Idaho voters chose the Winchester Model 1873 “Gun that Won the West” with 31 percent of votes, about 6 points over the next most popular option. One UI student, Sara Alnajdi, commented, “Regarding the gun one, I was very taken aback by that question because I thought ‘We don’t need a state gun.’ I don’t know why that was a question that was on there. I thought it was a little ridiculous … I remember that I didn’t know if I had the option to leave it blank on the gun one, so I just ended up circling a really random gun.”
Another UI student, Wyatt Curl, was only able to vote in Washington this year but provided his thoughts on the options. “... I just think it’s really funny to see that on a ballot … I think a lot of the ones on there were older, right? I mean, I am not familiar with Idaho History, but to me none of these firearms make any sense to be the state gun because none of them were made in Idaho. You can look at the state bird, or the state tree, like, ‘Oh, they’re all found in Idaho,’ but none of these were made in Idaho. A lot of these were really prevalent in the East Coast.” Curl particularly was amused by the inclusion of the M1 Garand as an option. Voter turnout in Latah County sat at 65 percent of registered voters, with 15,765 ballots recorded out of 24,146 registered voters. Students generally agreed with the results of House Joint Resolution 4, which was voted down 66.2% to 33.7%, which would have taken the right to put forth ballot initiatives on cannabis and other narcotics out of the hands of voters and given it solely to the state legislature. Both respondents seemed at least mildly against the notion of losing voter input on narcotics legislation. Alnajdi said that she was, “a bit more indif-
ferent about that… I’m not sure if legislatures should be the only ones deciding that.” Other questions, however, were received with more mixed opinions. Among these other ballot measures (House Joint Resolution 6) was the designation of English as the official constitutional language of Idaho, which passed 63.1% to 36.8.% Some students had opinions similar to Curl, who said that “I’m not really sure what the actual ramifications of that would be. It kind of seems more like a ceremonial thing more than anything else … I think for something like that if it has actual ramifications, I think it is actually a very good thing for things like transportation and agriculture and safety standards and all that. If you don’t actually understand English, you can’t read road signs and that’s a problem. Having an official language that you are expected to at least have a basic understanding of makes sense.” Alnajdi was more skeptical, saying, “English is probably primarily used, but I don’t think that there should be an official language for Idaho or even the US in general, because there’s not just people who only speak English. There are those who speak different languages here in America.”
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut Sitting at the steps on the Idaho State House
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut A student walking up to the polling place on the 2nd floor of the Bruce Pitman Center
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Republicans keep seats in District 6 Democrats win Latah County but fall short in Lewis, Nez Perce counties Arman Khachatryan ARGONAUT Republicans won their seats in District 6 in the state legislature, with incumbents Dan Foreman (Senate) and Brandon Mitchell (House) easily reelected. They will be joined by newcomer Colton Bennett to represent Latah and Lewis counties as well
as a portion of Nez Perce county. “I’m very grateful to everyone that trusted me, and I will work every day in the legislature to live up to that trust,” Bennett told the Argonaut. Bennet said his party got a message last night about never-ending wars, regarding the Democrats’ takeover of the U.S. Senate and House. He said, “I hope we learn that lesson, the American spoke loud and clear.” He reiterated his stance against foreign wars and urged his party-mates to heed the same message. The other winners in the District 6 State office races were
unavailable to make a comment. Bennett beat Democrat Trish Carter-Goodheart by a margin of 53.9% to 46%; Foreman beat Democrat Robin Weldy 52.7% to 47.2%, and Mitchell bested Democrat Kathy Dawes 54.6% to 45.3%. The three Democrats all won in Latah County but lost decisively in Lewis and Nez Perce counties. The voter turnout in Idaho was 69.3%; in Latah County it was 65%. Nationwie, the voter turnout was 65.8%. Since its redistricting following the 2020 census, District 6 has been a reliably Republi-
can district. The wins in state legislature were accompanied by Republican victories in county positions for Latah County as two county commissioner seats, the county clerk seat and county treasurer seats were up for election in this cycle. Republicans Dan Schoenberg and Tony Johnson were elected in their respective Latah County commissioner districts, beating Democrats Laura Heinse and Carole Wells, respectively. Republican July Fry held on to her seat as County Clerk. BJ Swanson was the only Democrat to win in Latah as the County
Treasurer. Additionally, most state legislature offices went to Republicans as did the Congressional offices as James Risch, Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher were able to thwart their Democratic challengers. Governor Brad Little was able to secure re-election for his third term against Democrat Terri Pickens and Independent John Stegner, and Attorney General Raul Labrador easily defeated challenger Democrat Lori Hickman.
Handful of races have not yet been called Democrats lead by extremely slim margins in states traditionally Republican Mike Catalini ASSOCIATED PRESS The narrow margins come as Democrats flipped seats in places Republicans comfortably won two years ago, securing control of both chambers of Congress. In the House, 59 races where party control of the seat is at stake have yet to be called. The AP does not make projections and will only declare a winner when it’s determined there is no scenario that would allow the trailing candidate to close the gap. In Mississippi’s Senate race, Democrat Scott Colom has a lead of a few dozen votes over Republican Sen. Cindy HydeSmith. Several thousand provisional ballots are expected to be counted in the race and the state has until Nov. 10 to resolve those ballots. Those votes will be decisive. In 2022, the state counted about 5,700 provisional ballots. Mississippi does not have an automatic recount process, but a challenger can seek a court order for one.
The Associated Press has also not called Alaska’s Senate contest between incumbent Republican Dan Sullivan and Democrat Mary Peltola, who has a 626-vote lead over Sullivan with an estimated 74% of votes counted. Under Alaska law, if neither candidate gets more than 50% of the vote then it goes to ranked-choice tabulation. Also in Alaska, Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins has a 20 percentage point lead over Republican Bernadette Wilson in Alaska’s governor’s race. KreissTomkins had 49.2% of the vote with an estimated 74% of the ballots counted. Like the Senate contest, the governor’s election advances to another round if no candidate gets more than 50% of the votes. In Kansas, Democrat Cindy Holscher has less than a percentage point lead over Republican Ty Masterson in the Kansas governor’s race. Holscher’s 5,557 vote lead with an estimated 98% of votes counted comes after Democrat Adam Hamilton became the first member of his party to win a Senate seat in nearly a century. Both Holscher and Masterson serve in the state Senate, where the Republican serves as its president.
Lindsey Wasson | Associated Press
Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, gets his ballot before voting at the Alaska Zoo on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Democrats gain significant ground among key demographics Democrats reverse many of the gains President Trump made in 2024 Linley Sanders, Humera Lodhi and Amelia Thomson-Deveaux ASSOCIATED PRESS The AP Voter Poll, a sweeping survey of more than 100,000 voters in all 50 states, showed that young voters swung sharply left. Democratic candidates’ performance among voters under 30 this year far exceeded the support this group gave Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 AP VoteCast survey. Hispanic voters, who shifted toward Trump in 2024 as well, moved toward Democrats this year, as did Black voters – particularly Black men. Many Moderates— who overwhelmingly said Congress was not doing enough to put checks and balances on the presidency — backed Democratic candidates nationally and were important for Democratic victories in several key Senate races. And as most voters said inflation had caused them and their family at least “moderate” hardship over the past year, voters with a 2025 household income of less than $50,000 also shifted away from Republicans, compared to 2024. Here is how five key demographic groups moved in the 2026 election, according to The AP Voter Poll: Voters under 30 swung toward the Democratic Party After relatively high support
for Trump in the 2024 election, young voters snapped back toward the Democratic Party in this year’s midterms. The AP Voter Poll showed about 7 in 10 voters under 30 nationally said they supported the Democratic candidate in their local U.S. House race, while about 3 in 10 said they voted for the Republican. That was a dramatic shift from 2024, when the youngest voters were roughly split between Trump and Harris. Most first-time midterm voters, who skew younger, also mostly supported the Democratic candidate. Both young voters and firsttime voters made up a fairly small share of voters. Only about 1 in 10 voters in the 2026 national electorate are under 30, for instance, which limited the impact of the shift. But young voters’ displeasure with the country and its leadership was clear. About half of young voters said they were “angry” about the way things were going in the country today, compared with only about onethird of voters ages 65 and older. And about 6 in 10 voters under 30 said one reason for their vote for the U.S. House was to express opposition to Trump, compared to about half of voters ages 30-44, and about 4 in 10 voters ages 45 and older. Young voters shifted toward the Democrats in each of the Senate races where the Democratic Party picked up a seat, including in Texas, Kansas, Iowa, Ohio and North Carolina. Republicans lost ground with Hispanic voters, particularly in Texas
Republicans appeared to lose most — if not all — of Trump’s gains with Hispanic voters in 2024. Only about one-third of Hispanic voters said they backed the Republican in their local U.S. House race, while roughly 4 in 10 voted for Trump two years ago. About 6 in 10 Hispanic voters nationally said they voted for the Democratic candidate in their local House race. This shift was evident in the Texas Senate race that Democrat James Talarico won over Republican Ken Paxton. The AP Voter Poll showed roughly 6 in 10 Hispanic voters in the Texas Senate race supported Talarico, while only about 3 in 10 voted for Paxton. The group was more closely split between Trump and Harris in the 2024 presidential election, according to AP VoteCast. And even in the Florida Senate race, where Republican Sen. Ashley Moody managed to narrowly win reelection, less than half of Hispanic voters supported Moody, while Trump definitively won this group two years earlier. Republican inroads with Black voters appear fleeting Black voters, particularly Black men, were another group where Trump’s 2024 gains didn’t stick. Only about 1 in 10 Black men voters nationally backed the Republican candidate in their local U.S. House race, down from the roughly one-quarter who supported Trump in the last presidential election, according to AP VoteCast. About 9 in 10 Black voters supported the Democratic
House candidate, up from the roughly 8 in 10 who cast their ballot for Harris. These shifts were particularly important in some major races. Black men shifted significantly in the Georgia race for governor, where Keisha Lance Bottoms became the first Black woman elected as a governor. About 9 in 10 Black men voted for Bottoms, according to The AP Voter Poll. Only about three-quarters supported Harris in 2024. About 9 in 10 Black women supported Bottoms, roughly the same share that supported Harris. Republican Byron Donalds, who was elected Florida’s first Black governor, did not have the same level of success with Black voters. About one-quarter of Black men in the state voted for Donalds over Democrat David Jolly, while only about 1 in 10 Black women supported Donalds. Democrats increased their support with moderate voters Democrats increased their support with moderate voters, particularly in key Senate races where Democrats flipped Republican-held seats. Roughly two-thirds of moderates supported the Democratic candidate in their local U.S. House race, an uptick from the approximately 6 in 10 moderate voters who backed Harris. A large majority of moderate voters, about 8 in 10, said Congress was not doing enough to provide checks and balances on the presidency, and a similarly high share said they had experienced at least a “moderate” hardship in the past year because of inflation.
Many Democratic candidates in key Senate upset races benefitted from significant moderate support. In Kansas, for instance, Democrat Adam Hamilton won about 7 in 10 moderate voters, a substantial rise from the roughly half that Harris won in 2024. In Iowa, there was a similar pattern as Democrat Josh Turek won about two-thirds of moderates, up from about half for Harris. And in North Carolina, Democrat Roy Cooper won about three-quarters of moderates, improving on the slimmer majority that backed Harris. Amid concern about costs, lower income voters move toward Democrats In a year when economic concerns drove many voters’ choices, the AP Voter Poll found lower-income voters shifted toward the Democrats. More than half of voters with a 2025 household income under $50,000 voted for the Democratic candidate in their local U.S. House race. These voters were about evenly split between Trump and Harris in 2024. About 3 in 10 U.S. voters nationally report having a family income that falls under $50,000 each year. The survey suggests that these voters were more likely than voters with a higher income to say they were concerned about the cost of food and groceries, gas prices and utilities. About 6 in 10 voters with a household income under $50,000 said the cost of living was “crucial” to their vote, compared to about half of voters who earned $50,000 or more.
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
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Midterms bring in wave of historic firsts Election results demonstrate firsts nationwide Terry Tang ASSOCIATED PRESS Yes, the 2026 midterms will be remembered for the astonishing number of losses that Democrats handed to President Donald Trump. But in the background, something perhaps equally seismic unfolded: a wave of firsts that elevated into high office members of groups that had, until now, been kept largely at the margins. There were cheers and happy tears at election parties from New Mexico to Georgia late Tuesday once it became clear voters had elected the country’s first Black female governor, the first Native American female governor, the first Native female senator and the first openly gay male
U.S. senator. By early Wednesday, the first Muslim U.S. senator was also added to the list of barrier-breaking milestones. The astonishing blue wave also means the United States will likely have its first-ever Black speaker of the House. Most of these firsts are Democrats, but the GOP has also broken some new ground. While some of these candidates have avoided focusing on the inherent historic value of their race, gender, religion or sexual orientation, some voters’ rights advocates are celebrating how the electorate has expanded. “These firsts show how our country is changing,” Alexis Anderson-Reed, president and CEO of State Voices, a network of advocates for civic engagement and equity in democracy, said via e-mail.
“For years, people of color and LGBTQ+ communities have organized, knocked on doors, talked to voters, held conversations, and done the hard work of saving our democracy,” AndersonReed said. “These wins are because of them.” Here are some of the races where history was and could be made. Democrat Deb Haaland reveled in her historymaking moment of becoming the first Native American female governor in U.S. history. Haaland was declared the winner over Republican Gregg Hull, a former mayor, to lead New Mexico. Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan has become the first Native American female U.S. senator, helping Democrats win back the Senate. A citizen of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, Flanagan
Brynn Anderson | Associated Press
Georgia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms speaks in Atlanta
defeated Republican Michele Tafoya, a former NFL sideline reporter. Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms was declared the winner Tuesday night in the Georgia governor’s race, ending 250 years of U.S. history without a Black woman serving
as a state’s governor. The former Atlanta mayor was running against Republican Rick Jackson, a billionaire businessman. Abdul El-Sayed will become the first Muslim American to serve in the U.S. Senate. Democratic Rep.
Chris Pappas has won his U.S. Senate race in New Hampshire and becomes the country’s first openly gay male senator. He defeated former Republican U.S. Sen. John E. Sununu, who previously served in both chambers of Congress.
Global leaders express Democrats make mixed opinions on sweeping gains, U.S. election results taking control of
legislatures Power shifts as states vote blue Scott Bauer and Geoff Mulvihill ASSOCIATED PRESS
Allison Robbert | Associated Press
The sun rises behind the U.S. Capitol on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, in Washington
Opinions come from those who have sparred with Trump Jill Lawless and Rob Gillies ASSOCIATED PRESS World leaders who have sparred with the “America first” President Donald Trump greeted the rout of his Republican Party in the U.S. midterm elections with a measure of relief on Wednesday, allowing themselves to hope for a less combative U.S. foreign policy. But that hope was seasoned with expectation that American voters’ rebuke would not necessarily end the U.S. conflict with Iran or change Trump’s policies on tariffs or his lukewarm-at-best support for Ukraine and America’s European allies. Progressive politicians cast the results as part of a trend of liberal comebacks around the world, following recent defeats for populists on the right in Hungary, Brazil and Serbia. Spain’s social democratic Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez wrote on X that Americans had voted “Against hate. Against machismo. Against climate denialism and against the privileges of the elites.” “It happened in Brazil. It just happened in the US. And it will happen soon
in Spain,” wrote Sánchez, who faces an election on Nov. 29. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said the majority of Americans had sent a clear message that “they have had enough of MAGA and now want a different course. Enough of polarization.” British Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed hope the election results would focus minds in Washington and other capitals on ending the Iran war, which has sent fuel prices soaring—a major source of frustration for voters. “The world has an opportunity now to unite around the issue that is affecting us all, and that’s the cost of living,” Burnham said during a visit to the Commonwealth summit in Antigua. “But I can’t get people’s cost of living pressures down until the conflict in the Middle East is resolved.” That and “the conflict in Ukraine started by Russia. These are the things we have to focus on now.” But others in Europe cautioned that, with Trump in power for two more years, there would be no quick change to American foreign policy, which has strained defense, economic and diplomatic alliances. Laurel Rapp, director of the U.S. and North America
program at the Chatham House think tank, said there won’t be “a ‘we’re back’ moment in the U.S. relationship with Europe.” “I don’t expect this will significantly change the administration’s approach to Europe,” she said. “It’s been a very transactional one, one that has deep skepticism about the value Europe can offer the U.S. in terms of a defense relationship.” The United States’ immediate neighbors reserved judgment on whether the Republican defeat would smooth rocky relations with Washington. “We must wait and see,” said Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc said it’s not clear whether the election result will strengthen Ottawa’s hand in talks aimed at cooling a bitter trade war. “I guess we’ll see in a few weeks,” when the new Congress takes over in January, he said. But Ontario Premier Doug Ford, whose province has been battered by Trump’s tariffs on automobiles and steel, said the Democrats’ sweeping victory would give Canada “a little more leverage” and declared it a win for the country and the world. “I was doing cartwheels down the street,” Ford said.
Democrats made sweeping gains in state governments during the midterm elections, taking control of several legislatures and shifting the balance of power across some battleground and historically Republicanleaning states. The party took full control—both statehouse chambers and governors’ offices—in Minnesota and Wisconsin and could pick up more states to earn additional trifectas. The wins put pressure on the party to answer to an electorate angry over the price of gas, inflation, affordable housing and the rising cost of living. State governments shape a wide array of policies affecting
everyday lives, including tax rates and abortion rights, school choice and education funding, data center development, and the use of artificial intelligence and law-enforcement surveillance cameras. Democrats succeeded in flipping control of both chambers of the Legislature in battleground Wisconsin, breaking a 16-year Republican majority, and retained the governor’s office. They also won back full control of the Legislature in neighboring Minnesota and retained the governor’s office for another trifecta. Democrats also were in position to win trifectas in the presidential battlegrounds of Pennsylvania and Michigan. And the party broke or prevented Republican supermajorities in nine legislative chambers in eight states: Florida, South
Carolina, Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Ohio, Kansas and North Carolina. Democrats will also hold at least 28 governorships in 2027, with pickups in Georgia, Iowa, Ohio and Texas—states long held by Republicans. The wins come after Democrats lost nearly 1,000 state legislative seats during President Barack Obama’s tenure, a slide they’ve been trying to reverse for several cycles. Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, said Democrats won “historic levels of power in statehouses.” She said Democrats hadn’t flipped this many seats nationwide since the 1980s. “The shift in the balance of power in our statehouses will have some of the longest-lasting impacts of this election,” she said.
Robert F. Bukaty | Associated Press
Supporters of Maine Democratic Senate candidate Troy Jackson cheer as early election results are announced an election night event, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, in Portland, Maine
LIFE
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Thursday, Nov. 05, 2026
Family weekend is back Parents and Family Weekend will take place this week featuring events, tailgating and a football game Melanie Knapp ARGONAUT The University of Idaho will be holding its Fall 2026 Parent and Family Weekend Friday, Nov. 6 to Sunday, Nov. 8. This weekend is a great opportunity for students to reunite with their families, celebrate the university and explore Moscow. Parent’s weekend is hosted by the Student Alumni Relations Board. The schedule for the week is as follows: The Ultimate Mini Golf Challenge will take place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6 through Saturday, Nov. 7 and 1 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8. The challenge will be held at Airway Hills Golf Course and costs $15 for one round or $25 for an unlimited all-day pass to both courses. No preregistration
is required. Multi-Sport Simulator Family Fun Days will also take place on 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 1-8 p.m. on Sunday. It’s $15 for one round or $25 for an unlimited all-day pass to both courses. No pre-registration is required. Additionally, at the same time and location is the Ultimate Mini Golf Challenge. It costs $55 for an entire group. Prepayment is required, call 509-872-3092 or book online. Brushes and Bites will occur at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7. Participants will meet at the Bruce M. Pitman Center International Ballroom and then be led by alumna Brittany Hunt in painting the UI Hello Walk. The event costs $25 per person, which includes all supplies, snacks and beverages. The Parent Family Weekend Cornhole Tournament will be held at 11 a.m. on the Theophilus Tower Lawn. The event costs $15 per team. The Vandal Fan Zone Tailgate will be from noon to 2 p.m. at the ICCU Arena Plaza. Food and
Aaron Serio | Argonaut
The Vandalizers packed the student section for the first home game of the 2023 season
beverages will be available for purchase. The Kids Zone will also be from noon to 2 p.m. in the ICCU Arena Alumni Club Room for children ages 5-12. It’s free to attend. Vandal Football vs. Eastern Washington will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7. in the
P1FCU Kibbie Dome. The cost of tickets varies. Tickets can be purchased here. Many other events are also taking place, including several showings of the play “Urinetown” and a concert for “The Aces” at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7. The VandalStore will also
have several deals and events of their own including a custom hat bar, a free reusable tote and more. For more resources and information on this and future weekends, visit UI’s Parent and Family Weekend website.
UI hosts annual Tower Trick or Treat Students and the community enjoyed decorations, candy, costumes and games in the Theophilus Tower McKinley Forth ARGONAUT 18,000 pieces of candy were estimated to be handed out on October 31st from 2-4 p.m. in Theophilus Tower on the University of Idaho campus. This was for the 48th Tower Trick or Treat, a yearly event where students decorate each floor of the first-year residence hall and hand out candy, while families ride the elevator up to the eleventh floor and walk down while trick-or-treating and playing games to win prizes. This year, the entire theme for the tower was retro video games. Residence assistants for each floor picked a specific retro game as their theme, so every floor was decorated as a different game. From the eleventh floor to the basement, the themes were Daytona USA, Sonic, Frogger, Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, Kirby, Galaga, Pokemon, The Legend of Zelda, Tetris, Castlevania, and Mario Bros, the last of which was decorated by the Residence Hall Association. The first-floor lobby was also decorated with a second theme, Wreck-It Ralph. For students, there was a $100 prize for the best-decorated hall to spend on their floor, voted on by attendees. The winning floor was the ninth floor, whose theme was Frogger. This floor paid homage to the original game by showcasing both the road and water hazard zones. Along with little log rugs on the floor, colorful lighting, and 3D elements on their walls. Besides voting on the best floor, attendees of the event were also encouraged
to bring canned food to donate to the food bank; 38 items were gathered. As for the turnout, 585 adultsand children from Moscow and the surrounding areas showed up with both parents, children, and teens sporting Halloween costumes. There were also 86 volunteers consisting of Tower student staff, residents, and professional staff. A resident volunteer who helped hand out candy, Madelon Nute, when asked by the Argonaut why the event should be important to students, said, “I think it helps them have something to do on Halloween rather than focus on other things, and I think bringing joy to children really helps brighten people’s days, especially when they’re away from home during the holidays.” Along with handing out candy, students also worked as greeters, helped decorate the halls before the event, and ran the games. In the lobbies of the even-numbered floors, there were games, those being corn hole on the tenth, marble balancing on the eighth, hopscotch on the sixth, tic-tac-toe on the fourth, and Go Fish on the second. Prizes for the games were candy and fidget toys. Resident Director of the Tower, Wemba Okonda, reflected on the importance of the event for the community, telling the Argonaut, “I think Tower Trick-or-Treat has great value because it creates a sense of belonging. The Tower staff, residents, and other student volunteers dedicate their free time to welcome guests, host engaging activities, hand out candy, and help make Halloween memorable for hundreds of children. Not only are they able to give back to their community, but they are also able to develop a stronger sense of leader-
ship, service, and connection to those around them. Bringing so many people together for a shared experience helps
create meaningful relationships and build the kind of community we all want to be a part of.”
We’re hiring!
The general-interest magazine produced by UI Student Media is looking for staff for Spring 2027.
All positions are open, including editor in chief, creative director, and writers/illustrators/ designers.
Some positions offer a weekly stipend, while articles, designs and photographs are paid on a freelance basis.
If you like to write, design magazine pages, take photos, and want to participate in the creation of a great publication, this is a great opportunity! To apply for a position, go to For more information, see https://www.blotmagazine. https://www.blotmagazine.com/ about/blot-staff-application/ com/
Miriam Moore | Argonaut
Freshmen Melanie Goshy and Megan Winterlich pass out candy dressed as scarecrows
Questions can be directed to Jim Niedbalski, student media manager, at niedbalski@uidaho.edu
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
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LHSM presents “Tubaween”
Horoscopes
The school of music’s annual Halloween tradition continues with festive costumes and an esemble
From finding one’s ambitions to taking risks, this month will bring new changes
Austin Kieckhefer ARGONAUT On Friday, October 30, the Lionel Hampton School of Music hosted their annual “Tubaween” concert. A holiday themed event focusing on the Low Brass ensemble, specifically the Tuba and Euphonium ensemble. The music ranged from a wide variety of pieces. There were more inherently classical and romantic pieces, like Paul Tschesnokoff’s “Salvation is Created”, arranged by Ron Knoener, to more modernly recognizable pieces, like Danny Elfman’s “This is Halloween”, the introduction song of the Halloween and Christmas mainstay, “The Nightmare Before
Christmas”. The concert was helped set up by Mark Thiele, the Assistant Professor of Tuba/Euphonium and directors of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences. Along with the students, there was also Catherine Anderson performing on piano. The wider ensemble performances included the previously stated pieces, as well as “Rains of Castermere” from the celebrated fantasy series, “Game of Thrones”, written by George R. R. Martin and Ramin Djawadi, arranged by Camdyn Rolak, “Festival Fanfare” be Ben Miles, and the first three movements of Ian Letter’s “Four Personalities”. Along with the wider ensembles performances, there were also numerous solos performed by students. It was a wonderful way to emphasize the dedication and skills with their instruments and the school of music’s abilities. These soloists were Aysa Young-
Wilson, performing Mozart’s “Concerto, K. 412” on tuba, Lauren Ricketson, performing Elena Roussanova’s “Fantasy” on euphonium, McKenna Liedes performing Phillip Sparke’ “Song for Ina” on euphonium, Tristen Jorgenson performing Serge Fachmaninoff’s “Voscalise, Op. 34, No. 14” on tuba, Grand Waltman performing Walter Hartley’s “Suite” on tuba, and Samuel Cooper performing the prelude of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Suite No. 1 in G Major, BWV 1107” on euphonium. A part of the concert was a joke twist on the story of “Nightmare Before Christmas”. One student dressed as Jack Skellington and another as Santa Clause, promoting unity and enjoying music together. During the intermission, there was also a spectacle of a costume contest, ranging from detailed and crafted homemade outfits, to well established inside jokes and everything in between.
Austin Kieckhefer | Argonaut
Andrea Roberts ARGONAUT Aries (March 21- April 19) Nov. can mean a new sense of ambition for Aries. You may be ready for new risks this month. This month is the perfect time to pursue goals and ambitions. In true Aries fashion, it’s time to be bold and fearless. Tarus (April 20- May 20) This month Tarus’s should focus on stability and emotional security. There may be financial opportunities this month. Embrace change rather than shy away from it this month. Gemini (May 21- June 20) Geminis should focus on relationships and friendships this month. Stay open-minded to new people that may come into your life. But, be careful not to spread yourself too thin and focus on yourself this month. Cancer (June 21- July 22) This Nov., Cancer should focus on reconnecting with your emotions. Try to prioritize what matters in your life. This is the perfect time to figure out your goals for the rest of the year. Leo (July 23- Aug. 22) Your confidence will take center stage this month. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and be your authentic self. Your ambition will take you far this month. Virgo (Aug. 23- Sept. 22) This month, prioritize what matters in your life and make room for something better. Be open to new experiences and opportunities that are coming your way. Libra (Sept. 23- Oct. 22) Your relationship should take priority this month. Don’t be afraid to be honest with yourself and others in Nov. Now is the time to focus on your needs and what you want. Scorpio (Oct. 23- Nov. 21) Nov. is the time to embrace transformation. You may want to begin to form new habits and relationships. Now is the time reflect and become a better version of yourself. Sagittarius (Nov. 22- Dec. 21) Now is the time to embrace adventure and pursue new opportunities. Travel, learn new things and find out more about yourself. It’s the perfect time to bring yourself out of your comfort-zone. Capricorn (Dec. 22- Jan. 19) Your long-term goals should be your priority this month. Pursue your ambitions and don’t let anything hold you back. Success is closer than you may think. Aquarius (Jan. 20- Feb. 18) Your creativity and imagination will carry you far this month. Stay true to yourself and know your worth this month. Pisces (Feb. 19- March 20) Listen to your intuition this month. Hold onto your gut feelings about goals, financials and relationships. Don’t be afraid to reflect about these things this month.
The Low Brass Ensemble apart of the LHSM performs for a crowd, dressed in Halloween costumes
Open mic night features music from across the globe The International Programs Office gives many individuals the opportunity to showcase their talent Melanie Knapp ARGONAUT The University of Idaho’s International Programs Office held a Global Music Open Mic Night on Thursday, Oct. 29, from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. at One World Cafe. The event was part of International Education Week. According to Mimi Kestle, the International Programs director, “Living in a rural area, these events allow us to celebrate the close to 70 countries represented in our campus and to celebrate all the international education and richness.” The event featured an audience of all ages and backgrounds, offering a welcoming and diverse atmosphere. The cafe was filled to the brim with individuals, many of which spent the night dancing along to the music or talking with friends. Over 10 individuals and groups performed, showcasing music from a variety of cultures. Songs ranged from Peruvian Creole, to Italian, to Lady Gaga and everything in between. The music even expanded outside our universe, to “a galaxy far, far away,” with one artist performing songs from the popular “Star Wars” franchise. Several performers utilized guitars or pianos, while others utilized less common instruments such as the cajón, cowbell and accordion. Some performed without instruments, their singing the main object of their performance. English and Spanish were the most commonly featured languages, but many more made their appearance throughout the night. One individual even translated a German song into French. Munira Meem, a senior at UI, captured this diversity perfectly when she said: “Music travels across languages, but the emotions remain alive between us.” Meem also requested that the audience wish a happy birthday to her friend across the world in Bangladesh, adding another
special element to the night. Beyond celebrating global culture, the event gave many the opportunity to gain experience performing in front of a crowd. According to Bill LaVoie, the event’s technical director, “It’s important that musicians hear themselves well… Open mics are a safe place for people to go out and play music and be in front of people.” Kaili Chapman, a freshman at UI, agreed with his statement when she said: “Singing solo was something I haven’t experienced as much of, but it felt really good. It was good
exposure, and good practice!” The International Programs Office has held several recent events, including the Global Moments Photo Contest, the Global Scavenger Hunt with the School of Global Studies and a talk on global peace building as part of the Renfrew Colloquium. More information on the office and their events can be found on UI’s International Student and Scholar Services website. One World Cafe also features several unique events, which can be found on their events website.
Many of those who performed at Global Music Open Mic Night are set to perform again within the next month. LaVoie has his own band, “Corn Mash,” and is set to perform at the cafe on Saturday, Nov. 7, 6 to 8 p.m. A Brazilian band, “Forro for All,” will play on Thursday, Nov. 12, 6 to 8 p.m. An open mic night for children will supposedly take place Sunday, Nov. 22, however details have not yet been released on the cafe’s website.
Melanie Knapp | Argonaut
Community members and students enjoy different cultural music, along wth well-known songs at the One World Cafe in downtown Moscow
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
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GALLERY: U of I theatre performs satirical musical ‘Urinetown’
Urinetown opens at the Hartung Theatre on Thursday, Nov. 5, and will run through Sunday, Nov. 13. A total of seven performaces will occur. Thursday, Friday and Saturday showings will begin at 7:30 p.m.. Sunday, Nov. 8 will offer a 7:30 p.m. show and 2 p.m. matinee. Sunday, Nov. 13 will exclusivley run at 2 p.m. Tickets can be found online at uitickets.com.
Reagan Jones | Argonaut
An ensemble huffs across the stage, jeering towards the crowd
Reagan Jones | Argonaut
Bobby Strong is played by Jonson Brotnov, and Penelope Pennywise is played by Mckenzy Quick
Reagan Jones | Argonaut
Cory Williamson plays the role of Officer Lockstock, the narrator of the musical
Reagan Jones | Argonaut
Officer Lockstock frequently breaks the fourth-wall throughout the duration of Urinetown
Reagan Jones | Argonaut
Urinetown is a satircal musical meant to play on themes of capitalism, the faults in the legal system, bureaucracy and corporate mismanagement
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
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SPORTS
Standout Vandal Spotlight: Hallie Prinos-Grumbach
An asset in the assist department The junior midfielder continues to create offensive opportunities beyond the stat sheet Star Stephens ARGONAUT At the heart of the University of Idaho women’s soccer team’s recent success is junior midfielder Hallie Prinos-Grumbach, a player whose impact goes far beyond the traditional stat sheet. Whether creating scoring opportunities, delivering dangerous balls into the box or helping teammates find the back of the net, Prinos-Grumbach has continued to establish herself as an important piece of the Vandals’ offensive attack. The Redmond, Washington, native has demonstrated her ability to influence games in multiple ways throughout the 2026 season. Her combination of technical skill, vision and awareness has made her a valuable presence in Idaho’s midfield, and her performances over the team’s recent stretch of games have provided another example of just how important she is to the Vandals. One of Prinos-Grumbach’s most notable recent performances came on Oct. 25, when Idaho hosted Southern Utah for its Senior Day matchup. The Vandals delivered a dominant 4-0 victory, finishing their home schedule undefeated with a 5-0-3 record. While the score highlighted Idaho’s offensive firepower, Prinos-Grumbach played a significant role in creating that success. She recorded three assists in the contest, helping set up Makenna Stuart and Mia Boltz for goals. Her contributions demonstrated her ability to recognize opportunities and put teammates in positions to succeed. Rather than simply looking for her own scoring opportunities, Prinos-Grumbach showed the importance of being a playmaker and creating chances for the players
around her. That performance carried into Idaho’s next matchup against Portland State on Oct. 29. In a 2-0 road victory, Prinos-Grumbach once again made her presence felt. She assisted Tori Peters’ first collegiate goal in the 24th minute, helping the Vandals establish a 1-0 advantage. The goal came following a short corner kick, with Prinos-Grumbach delivering the ball into the box and giving Peters the opportunity to finish. Her assist was another example of the composure and vision she brings to the midfield. In a game where Idaho needed to find a breakthrough, Prinos-Grumbach helped provide the spark. The following weekend, Idaho traveled to Montana on Nov. 1, where the Vandals earned another important 2-1 victory. Although Prinos-Grumbach did not record a goal or assist in the matchup, she remained in the starting lineup and played 82 minutes. Her presence helped Idaho maintain its midfield structure and manage a difficult road environment in rainy conditions. The victory gave the Vandals back-toback road wins and continued their push through Big Sky Conference play. Her production throughout the season reinforces the importance of her role. According to Idaho’s 2026 season statistics, Prinos-Grumbach has recorded three goals and four assists for 10 total points through 17 appearances. She has started all 17 games and accumulated 1,200 minutes on the field. Her ability to contribute both as a scorer and facilitator makes her a versatile offensive threat. Now in her junior season, she has developed into the type of player her coaching staff envisioned: a technical midfielder who connects teammates, recognizes opportunities and helps dictate the pace of play. Her recent performances against Southern Utah and Portland State especially highlight those qualities. Three assists in
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
Idaho midfielder Hallie Prinos-Grumbach poses for a portrait in the Kibbie Dome on Tuesday
one game followed by another assist in a road victory demonstrate her ability to consistently create opportunities for her teammates. Even when she does not appear on the scoresheet, her presence in the starting lineup and contributions to Idaho’s overall play remain valuable. As Idaho continues its pursuit of success in the Big Sky Conference, Prinos-Grumbach will remain an important player to watch. Her vision, experience and ability to create scoring opportunities give the Vandals another dimension offensively.
For Prinos-Grumbach, the recent stretch has been about more than individual accomplishments. It has been about helping her teammates succeed, making important plays when opportunities arise and continuing to grow as a player. After overcoming significant obstacles to reach this point in her career, she has become an important part of a program looking to make its mark. Hallie Prinos-Grumbach is more than a midfielder who distributes the ball. She is a playmaker, a connector and a difference-maker whose contributions are helping drive Idaho soccer forward.
Vandals raid Portland State of a win Idaho rolls past the Vikings 38-14, keeping its FCS playoff hopes alive Max Moss ARGONAUT Vandal football (4-5, 4-2) picked up its fourth victory in its last five games Saturday afternoon in Portland, easily handling Portland State (2-7, 2-4) by a final score of 38-14. Starting the contest with the football, Idaho struck quickly in under three minutes. A third-down scramble from quarterback Joshua Wood kept the drive alive before a deep shot connected with Zack Card to get the Vandals on the board. Idaho would hold the lead for the rest of the contest. Idaho’s second drive would then also stall inside its own 40-yard line after an unsuccessful fourth-and-2 conversion attempt. The Vikings would take advantage of the prime field position on their next drive and capitalize to tie the score at 7-7, aided by a defensive pass interference call against Idaho. A crucial 31-yard jump-ball reception on third down from Ryan Jezioro would propel the Vandals forward on their next drive. Wood and Jezioro would connect again on the very next play for another chunk of 30 yards down to the PSU 10-yard line. Idaho would find its way into the end zone on third-and-goal, with Wood finding Damonte Bias out of the backfield for his second touchdown of the season. A huge first sack of the season from Javen Augustus would then help the Vandal defense force another three-and-out as the second quarter got underway. The Vikings would respond and force a defensive stop of their own, with Idaho electing to punt from around midfield on fourth-and-four.
A well-placed punt from Tyler Kinsman pinned the Vikes at their own 6-yard line. Lee Stalker’s defense would then stand firm once again and force another punt. After the two squads traded several more three-and-outs for most of the quarter, the Vandals would take advantage of field position and a defensive pass interference call. Owen Forsman hit a filed goal from 47 yards out to extend the Vandal lead to 17-7. The Vikes would pick up 25 yards on the first play of their next drive, but the drive would then stall, giving the Vandals the football back with under a minute remaining in the half. On their first play, Wood would connect again with a wide-open Ryan Jezioro off a blown coverage. Finding himself in so much space, Jezioro made several tacklers miss and rumbled into the end zone for a 77-yard Vandal touchdown, his new career long. A few chunk plays and a roughing-the-passer penalty helped the Vikings down the field before the end of the half, but they couldn’t convert from the Idaho 17-yard line before the half expired. Idaho led 24-7 at the break. PSU’s first drive of the second half ended on an unsuccessful fourth-and-2 conversion attempt from its own 33-yard line, once again giving Idaho ideal field position. Wood went right back to Jezioro immediately, finding his big-play target all the way down to the 6-yard line. Damonte Bias’ second touchdown of the day capped off another quick-strike scoring drive for the Vandals. The Vikes were able to move the chains to open their next drive but were again forced into a fourth-down situation from the Idaho 29-yard line. The Vandals would collapse the pocket as Mitch Jaskowiak hauled down Tyrese Smith for a big loss and another Idaho defensive stand. The Vandals marched down the field once again but would come up short this
time off a red-zone miscue after Wood had a third-and-goal pass attempt intercepted. PSU would eat up over five minutes of clock on its next drive, starting from its own 8-yard line, but would stall out again at the UI 46-yard line. Idaho took its time on its next drive, starting from its own 8-yard line, eating up over eight minutes of clock as it methodically broke down the Viking defense. A heavy rushing attack from Ferrari Miller and Kenny Golston gashed the defense, setting up Idaho in the red zone. Wood would keep it himself on fourth-andgoal to cap off a definitive drive, extending the lead to 38-7. PSU drove down and scored on its final drive, but the Vandals recovered the ensuing onside kick and were able to kneel out the rest of the clock to secure their third consecutive win. Joshua Wood finished 16 of 25 for 303 yards and three touchdowns while adding another score on the ground.
Ryan Jezioro continued his torrid season with a career-high 194 receiving yards on five catches, as well as his new career-long touchdown reception. The Vandal defense turned in perhaps its most complete performance of the season. Four sacks from four different players, seven tackles for loss and only 13 rushing yards allowed. Hysan Dalton and Cruz Hepburn had seven tackles apiece. Four different Vandals picked up sacks, including Mitch Jaskowiak, Mason Krahn, Freddy Lujan and Javen Augustus. The Vandals are getting hot at the right time and will need strong results in their final three games to keep their Big Sky and FCS tournament hopes alive. Victories in their final three games would put a scorching Idaho on a six-game winning streak and could make it a strong contender for an at-large bid for the FCS tournament should it fall short of the Big Sky crown.
Courtesy of Idaho Athletics
Junior wide receiver Ryan Jezioro makes a one-handed catch against Portland State
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ARGONAUT
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
Idaho basketball opens the 2026-27 season with dominant victories at home Men’s and women’s teams combine for 168 points in seasonopening wins over George Fox and Saint Martin’s David Espinoza & Gage McElroy ARGONAUT The University of Idaho basketball programs got their 2026-27 seasons underway on Monday, Nov. 2, with both the men’s and women’s teams delivering dominant performances in front of their home crowds. The men’s team opened its campaign with a 97-56 victory over George Fox, while the women’s team followed with a 71-47 win against Saint Martin’s. Both squads showed early promise, combining strong offensive production with impressive defensive performances to begin the season with convincing victories. MEN: The University of Idaho men’s basketball team opened its 2026-27 season on Nov. 2 with a dominant 97-56 victory over George Fox at home. Following last season’s historic NCAA tournament appearance, the first since 1990, the Vandals showed they can remain competitive despite only four players returning from that squad. Idaho took control early after a competitive opening five minutes, heading into halftime with a 44-23 advantage. The Vandals dominated the boards, outrebounding George Fox 32-15 while collecting 15 offensive rebounds. Idaho shot 41.5% from the field and 30% from 3-point range in the first half.
The second half brought more of the same as Idaho continued extending its lead, eventually going ahead by as many as 46 points. The Vandals finished with 52 total rebounds, nearly double George Fox’s 29, and outscored the Bruins 40-18 in the paint. Idaho also received a major contribution from its bench, which accounted for 45 of the team’s 97 points. Newcomer Kase Wynott led Idaho with 20 points, six rebounds and three assists, shooting 7-of-14 from the field and 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Kristian Gonzalez and Brady Kenninson each added 14 points, while Diego Trejo-Delgado contributed 11 points and five rebounds. Hudson Ward and Seth Joba also made an impact, each recording eight points and more than 10 rebounds. WOMEN: The University of Idaho women’s basketball team also began its season with a convincing victory, defeating Saint Martin’s 71-47 in front of more than 2,590 fans in Moscow on Nov. 2. The reigning Big Sky champions relied on their defensive strength and balanced scoring to secure a 24-point win. After a relatively slow start, Idaho established a 17-11 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Vandals took control in the second, holding Saint Martin’s to just four points over the entire period and extending their advantage to 14 at halftime. Idaho maintained its defensive pressure after the break, continuing to create turnovers and scoring opportunities. Junior Ella Uriarte helped lead the effort,
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
Idaho guard Ana Pinheiro (37) puts up a shot against Saint Martin’s guard Jada Travis (23 during a game on Monday, Nov. 2, in the ICCU Arena
Uriarte finished as Idaho’s leading scorer with 12 points and four steals, setting a new career high in steals. Junior Aniyah Riddell also made an immediate impact in her Vandal debut, recording 10 points while shooting a perfect 2-of-2 from the field and 6-of-6 from the free-throw line. Senior Keanna Salave’a led the Vandals with nine rebounds, while sophomore Katlin Kangur and senior Hope Hassmann each
recorded two assists. Junior Ana Pinheiro contributed two blocks. Seven Vandals made their Idaho debuts, including Reese de Groot, Salave’a, freshman Jacey Boesel, freshman Bailey Nettleton, junior Alexia Dagba, Riddell and Pukis. The victory marked the fifth time under head coach Arthur Moreira that Idaho has held an opponent below 50 points, continuing the defensive identity the program has established.
Vandals claw for a 2-1 win over Montana Idaho defeats the Grizzlies behind goals from Tori Peters and Miranda Goldner to complete a successful road trip Star Stephens ARGONAUT The University of Idaho women’s soccer team continued its strong Big Sky Conference campaign on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, earning an impressive 2-1 road victory over the University of Montana at South Campus Stadium in Missoula, Montana. Behind goals from Tori Peters and Miranda Goldner, the Vandals secured their second consecutive victory and completed a successful two-game road trip. The win was an important result for Idaho as the team continued building momentum late in the regular season. Facing a Montana squad playing on its home field, the Vandals delivered an effective offensive performance and demonstrated the defensive composure needed to protect a lead in a competitive conference matchup. Idaho wasted little time establishing itself offensively. At the 11:44 mark of the first half, senior Tori Peters found the back of the net to give the Vandals a 1-0 advantage. Peters created the breakthrough with a shot from near the top of the penalty area, placing the ball inside the right post and putting Idaho in control early. Payton Oelkers received credit for the assist, helping create the scoring opportunity. The early goal gave the Vandals confidence and allowed them to settle into the match. Montana continued looking for opportunities to respond, but Idaho maintained its narrow advantage through the remainder of the first half. Both teams generated attacking opportunities, with Montana recording eight shots compared with Idaho’s six during the opening 45 minutes. However, the Vandals entered halftime holding a valuable 1-0 lead. Idaho came out of halftime determined to extend its advantage, and the Vandals accomplished that goal just over 11 minutes into the second period. At 56:34, Miranda Goldner scored her first goal of the season to put Idaho ahead 2-0. The scoring play began with Calli Chiarelli, who delivered a cross from the left
side of the field. Goldner finished the opportunity, giving the Vandals a two-goal cushion and putting additional pressure on the Montana defense. The goal was an important contribution from Goldner, while Chiarelli’s assist demonstrated Idaho’s ability to create scoring opportunities through effective movement and passing in the attacking third. However, Montana was not ready to surrender on its home field. Just under four minutes after Goldner’s goal, Montana found its way onto the scoreboard. At 60:19, Grace Morton scored her second goal of the season to cut Idaho’s lead to 2-1. Morton’s goal came after a cross into the penalty area created an opportunity following a defensive clearance. She collected the loose ball and fired a shot away, beating Idaho goalkeeper Paula Flores. The goal energized the Grizzlies, who continued pushing forward in search of an
equalizer. Montana’s best opportunity to tie the match came in the 77th minute when Megan Wilson-Sofield took a shot from distance. The attempt was blocked by an Idaho defender, and the Vandals managed to prevent the follow-up opportunity from becoming another scoring threat. Despite Montana’s late pressure, Idaho remained organized defensively and successfully protected its one-goal advantage until the final whistle. Goalkeeper Paula Flores and the Idaho defensive unit played an important role in securing the victory, particularly during Montana’s second-half comeback attempt. The victory over Montana completed an impressive road trip for Idaho. The Vandals opened the trip with a 2-0 victory over Portland State on Oct. 29 before following it up with Sunday’s 2-1 win over the Grizzlies. Combining those two victories gave Idaho valuable momentum as the regular season approached its final stages.
The Nov. 1 victory was also significant because it marked Idaho’s first win over Montana in Missoula since 2022. It provided another important conference result and demonstrated the Vandals’ ability to compete in difficult road environments. Following the victory, Idaho prepared to return home for its next Big Sky Conference matchup against Eastern Washington on Thursday, Nov. 5, at noon. The Vandals will look to carry their offensive confidence and defensive consistency into that contest as they continue pursuing a strong finish to the 2026 season. Idaho’s 2-1 victory over Montana was an important accomplishment for the program. Peters provided the early breakthrough, Goldner delivered the eventual game-winning goal, and Flores and the defensive unit held firm when Montana threatened to equalize. With consecutive road victories, Idaho will be looking forward with strong momentum.
Idaho Athletics | Courtesy
Senior midfielder Tory Peters dribbles the ball down field against Montana
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
ARGONAUT
Page 11
Idaho faces EWU on Parent’s Weekend Idaho looks to keep momentum rolling in rivalry matchup with Eastern Washington, hoping to keep playoff hopes alive Liam Bradford ARGONAUT After an abysmal start to the season, Idaho (4-5, 4-2) has seemingly turned its season around in the past month. Now, with a chance to extend its winning streak to four games and strengthen its position in the FCS playoff race, the Vandals face one of their most important tests of the season against their closest conference rival. The Vandals welcome the Eastern Washington Eagles (2-7, 1-5) to the P1FCU Kibbie Dome on Saturday for the annual battle for the Che-Scow Cup. The Vandals have won four of their last five games, including three consecutive conference victories. Their latest came in a convincing 38-14 road win over Portland State, where quarterback Joshua Wood accounted for four touchdowns and the defense held the Vikings to just 13 rushing yards. Head coach Thomas Ford Jr. said the team’s continued improvement has been a point of emphasis throughout the season, particularly as the Vandals enter the final stretch of their schedule. “Don’t look at their record because they’re very dangerous,” Ford said of Eastern Washington. “They have a phenomenal quarterback in Nate Bell. One of the best quarterbacks in this league as far as a dual-threat guy.” Bell has been the centerpiece of the Eagles’ offense, throwing for 2,482 yards and 19 touchdowns while leading the team
in rushing with 384 yards and eight scores. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs presents a challenge for an Idaho defense that has shown significant improvement over the past several weeks. “He’s a guy that I think is super tough,” Ford said. “He got sacked 11 times last week and just kept on swinging and kept them in that football game.” The Vandals will need to limit Bell’s opportunities while finding ways to create turnovers. Eastern Washington has struggled to protect the football at times, and Ford labeled the turnover battle as one of the most important factors in Saturday’s matchup. Idaho’s defense enters the matchup after its best performance of the season against the run. The Vandals have also found success getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, recording four sacks and eight tackles for loss against Portland State. Ford credited the improvement of Idaho’s secondary, particularly its safeties, with allowing the defensive line to become more effective. “I think we’ve really kind of simplified it for our kids, and I think you’ve seen them play a lot faster as a result,” Ford said. Wood and the Vandals’ offense have been stellar during the winning streak. Wood ranks fourth nationally in total offense, averaging 325.6 yards per game. Against Portland State, he threw for 303 yards and three touchdowns while adding a rushing score. Ryan Jezioro also enters Saturday coming off a career performance. He caught five passes for 194 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings, giving Idaho another explosive threat downfield.
Tony Harste, who has averaged 86.7 receiving yards per game despite missing time with an injury, is expected to return against the Eagles. Eastern Washington’s defense has struggled statistically, allowing 38.6 points per game. Ford cautioned against judging the group solely by its numbers. The Eagles have created turnovers throughout the season. “They’re incredibly disruptive,” Ford said. “They’re a physical group.” Idaho leads the all-time series 20-10,
but the Eagles claimed a 21-14 victory in Cheney last season. The Eagles took the Che-Scow Cup from the Vandals, and Ford said the result has remained on the minds of returning players. “It’s easy to say this is just like every other game, but it’s not. It’s a big-time rivalry game,” Ford said. “Motivation on either side will be an issue this weekend.” Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. PT, with the game airing on ESPN+ and SWX.
Courtesy of Idaho Athletics
Four Vandals march onto the field before the coin toss agaisnt Southern Utah
PSU scares Idaho in a loss on Halloween Idaho struggles offensively as Vikings extend winning streak with three-set victory Sage Larson ARGONAUT The University of Idaho volleyball team continued its road trip from Northern Arizona, where it suffered a hard loss in three sets, to play Portland State on Halloween night, taking another hard loss in a short three sets, with the Vandals not reaching 20 points in any of the three sets. The Vandals played the Portland State Vikings three weeks ago in Idaho’s home Memorial Gym, winning in four sets. The game was evenly paced between the two teams, but the Vandals came out on top to secure their second win of the conference season. Unfortunately, they didn’t step onto the court with the same zeal they had before,
taking the loss to Portland as the Vikings added a tally to their five-game winning streak. Out of the gate, the Vandals stepped onto the court up 6-3 in the first few points, but they quickly fell behind after a service error by Kiana Greer and four straight attack errors by the Vandal offense. Nearing the end of the set, the Vikings were up by eight, 20-12, and clinched the last five points on multiple kills, aided notably by one of Portland’s top-scoring hitters, Ashley Repetti. The set ended 25-14 in favor of the Vikings, as the Vandals couldn’t find their footing on the court.The second set was significantly closer through the first half. The Vandals consistently stayed one to two points ahead until, at 15-14, a six-point run sealed the rest of the set. The Vandals’ energy dropped, as they didn’t work to score a single point through the rest of the set, only gaining points off Portland’s two service
errors through the end. The Vikings took 11 of the last 13 points, with over half coming on kills put down on the Vandal court, to end the set 25-17. In the final set, the Vandals could not seem to make any sort of comeback, with Portland taking an early lead and holding it the rest of the game. Idaho managed to tally 10 kills, a game high throughout the three sets, but it wasn’t enough as the Vikings took a seven-point run to close the game 25-14, sweeping the University of Idaho in three sets. Notably, five points from the seven-point run were attack errors by the Vandals’ front row instead of offensive power by Portland. For the Vikings, outside hitters Ashley Repetti and Alivia Eikenberg led the game on offense, contributing 11 points each for the Vikings and tallying over half of Portland’s total kills from the game. Additionally, they were
Courtesy of Idaho Athletics
UI junior librero Kyriah Trefren gets set for the next rally
able to put up and hold a strong block at the front line throughout the entirety of the game, putting up 10 against the Vandals, led by Reese Biesemeyer, who contributed four. Portland’s setter, Ava Blacziek, contributed 27 assists for her team, nearing almost double that of Idaho’s Csenge Krakoczki, who posted only 15 in the game. Their libero, Jessica Truong, led the game in digs with 11. Repetti and Blacziek each finished with eight as Portland’s back row consistently played great defense against the Vandals. For Idaho, Kiana Greer returned to the front row after the game against Northern Arizona, where she played as a defensive specialist in the back row. She led the team with nine kills for the Vandals, with Lucy Ryan behind her at three. Unfortunately, scores for the Vandals dropped far below the norm for each of the players on the court, and the Vandal offense could not seem to find a consistent rhythm against the Vikings. The Vandals made a total of 26 attack errors, higher than their total of 24 kills in the game. Setter Csenge Krakoczki made only 15 assists through the game, with the Vandals counting 22 total assists, marking the lowest number they’ve had since 2024. She did, however, contribute nine digs on defense, managing to outplay Idaho’s own libero, who put up only six.The hard game resulted in a loss for the Vandals, who are now 3-9 in conference play. Despite the Vandals opening the nonconference season strong, they’ve consistently struggled within the Big Sky and have been unable to recreate their preseason stats in recent games. The Vandals play Northern Colorado in the coming week for a rematch after losing to them in four sets in early October.
Up next sports: Gage McElroy ARGONAUT
Football The 4-5 Idaho Vandals will head into the Kibbie Dome riding a three-game winning streak to take on Eastern Washington. The game will take place on Parent’s Weekend on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 2 p.m
Men’s Basketball After an impresive win over George Fox, the 1-0 Vandals will make the trip over to Fort Collins, Colorado to take on Colorado State on Friday, Nov, 6 at 6 p.m. They will then make their way back home to the ACCU Arena to face Lincoln on Sunday Nov. 8 at 2 p.m.
Women’s Basketball After beating Saint Martin’s to start the season 1-0, the Vandals next test will be against Gonzaga in Spokane, Washington on Friday, Nov. 6 at 6 p.m.
Soccer The 10-3-5 Idaho Vandals near the end of their superb 2026 regular season. Their final test will take place in Cheney, Washington to take on Eastern Washington on Thursday, Nov. 5 at 12 p.m.
Volleyball The 12-12 Idaho Vandals have quite the hole to climb out of as they currently ride a two-game losing streak, and their next matchup isn’t going to be an easy one. With just six games left in their regular season schedule, on Thursday, Nov. 5, the Vandals will take on Northern Colorado at the Memorial Gym at 6 p.m.
Men’s Tennis The Idaho Vandals men’s tennis team will split to take part of two seperate tournaments. On Thursday, Nov. 5-8, the Vandals will take apart in the ITA Master’s Championships in Rome Georgia. At the same time, the team also will be apart of the ITA Sectional Championships in Tempe, Arizona
Swim and Dive The 1-1 Idaho swim and dive team will seek to portect their home turf as they take on Fresno State on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 12 p.m.
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Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
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68 Actor Rickman and others 69 Lays down the lawn Down 1 Cuts off 2 Ticker symbol of energy infrasturcture company 3 Dangerous atmospheres 4 Umbridge of Harry Potter 5 Village in England 6 Road goo 7 Biblical boat 8 __ rabbit of folktale 9 People group from Senegal 10 Apply more varnish to 11 Current holder of office 12 Poor grades 13 German word for Earth 18 Troubles 22 Coin toss call 24 Coral rings 25 Counts 27 Kitchen gadget 28 Family, in Hawaiian 29 Date that people vote 31 Jeer leaders 33 All in __ works 34 To the point 36 Greek house letters 37 UFO pilot 40 Luca of “The Godfather” 44 Foot bones 46 To be riddled with anxiety 48 __ of honor 50 “Hush, hush” writer Fitzpatrick 52 Attempts 53 Nails 54 Zilch 55 Former Cuban president Castro 57 Cameroonian soccer legend Samuel 58 Look after 59 Sugar suffixes 62 Gun lobby org. 63 Racket
13 "Earth" in 30 Bar50 bill "hush, hush" 48 En __ (all together) 32 “You’re up!” 49 Crash-investigation org. German writer 35 Cries of surprise 51 Astronomical red giant 18 troubles fitzpatrick 36 Did alone 53 Grow frustrated 38 Dutch 56 “__ the occasion” 22 coin toss call 52cityattempts 39 “Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-__” 60 Cunningham of Detroit 24 coral rings 53document nails 40 Voting Pistons 41 Realty 61 Those running for office 25 Counts 54group Zilch 42 English education term abbr. 64 Writer LeShan and others 27 kitchen gadget 43 Depends 55 former cuban 65 Radium discoverer (on) 44 “Til nextpresident time!” in a text castro 66 Solitary 28 Family, in 45 Arabic word for leader 67 Utters Hawaiian 57 African soccer 29 Date people legend Samuel vote 58 look after 31 Jeer leaders 59 sugar suffixes 33 All in __ work 62 gun lobby org. 34 to the point 63 racket 36 greek house letters 37 UFO pilot 40 Luca of "the Democracy Now! Global News godfather" Smell the 44 Stop footandbones Roses in your step 46 toPepbe riddled Brackett’s Rackett ‘99 Hour A Social Call with anxiety Rock/blues/country 90s and aught rock Friends and music The Afternoon Mix The Big Bobber 48 _ of honor Show Inconsistent interApple Time
Ambient dreamscapes for Bushwick Transplants
The Sweet Spot Dreamy soulful energy
Una Cucharadita Spoonful of Spanish
national
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No Setlist Hallway rock
Vince Rocket Musical Theatre
Vandal Theory
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This Must Be the Place A time machine
It’s My House
Deranged chaotic mess by man
Between Takes Live sports talk
Vandal to Vandal with Dean Eckles Speakers Push the Air Emo/electronic
First There is a Mountain Southern Rock
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Songs for the Deaf Grunge/western/psych
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Easy Skankin’ Ska/reggae/irie vibes
High Voltage Travel around the Metal/rock/alt/punk
Palouse-Lautrec Slackerbuzzrok
Serpentine
Burning Software Hip-hop/rap/R&B Mixup Boundary-free
I Feel the Rush Queer on campus
Dry Cleaning The Discount Bin The Intentionally Music to clean clothes Hot Wax What came out last Something Vicious to week Obtuse Show Electronic/rock/hipfor Tomorrow Something punkish Helicopter Hivehop Where riffs go to Paradise Ridge die mind Hour and a Dead Mule Hip-hop and vibe Coltrane to the time Clash
Exploratory Hour jazz/R&B/folk
The Kitchen Sink Grunge/indie/ shoegaze
Had’s Hub Anemoia
I Made You a Mixtape Give me the aux All Things Alt Alternative and indie
The Junkyard See what you can scavenge
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
ARGONAUT
OPINION
Page 13
Presidential committee not representative of UI Students deserve to give a say on who leads their university Josie Adjanohoun ARGONAUT As the search is ongoing for the University of Idaho’s new president, many groups seem to be underrepresented or not represented at all at the negotiation table. Though not every college, member of the university or even people in the Moscow community can be represented in one group of people, there has to be a bigger selection, or a larger variation in the types of people tasked with the role of finding the new president. Based on Idaho law, a presidential search committee must contain a minimum of two state board members, two university employees, one being a faculty member, two alumni, one member of the institution’s foundation and an at large community member. As it stands, the committee does meet these requirements but there is a shocking number of similarities in the people selected in the committee. Seven of the nine committee members have some sort of business degree, or attachment to the UI College of Business. There is a lack of representation to other colleges that make UI what it is. While it is difficult to find representatives from all of the colleges, there should be some sort of representation. Such as, placing the chair of faculty senate as a representative in the UI search committee could give a direct pipeline of faculty opinion into the search. The presidential search committee has also been enlisting the help of subcommittees, that will “help with the decision-making process.” Though there’s value to the student subcommittee lead by Associated Students of the University of Idaho President, Lance Butikofer, and the administration
and faculty subcommittee, lead by Michele Barlet and Annie Exline, the representation shown by these subcommittees should be mirrored in the actual presidential committee. Students and faculty have the biggest stake when it comes to who is the next UI president, not alumni, business leaders or people inside of the department of education. Though their input is important, they do not have to live, work and learn at the University of Idaho, and have a significant distance from the problems faced by students and faculty. Not having a spot on the main UI search committee for a student, whether that be the ASUI president or another student leader, is the greatest failure of the UI presidential search committee. Though it would be only one person, the lived experiences of a current UI student could express the amount of financial, emotional and societal pressures faced by the average UI student at the time of this major transition. The search committee has also enlisted the help of Korn Ferry, a global organizational consulting firm to assist with finding the next UI president, which is an odd choice. The work that Korn Ferry does is finding executive heads, such as CEOs or CBOs, for fortune 500 companies, not finding the future president of a university. Though there have been cases of Korn Ferry being used to find university presidents, using a consulting firm degrades the value of the committee itself, and of the subcommittees that are being formed. Another concern with the formulation of the committee is the percieved push toward making UI a business or attached to business interests. UI is a premier state university, and its leadership should be looked at from an experiential and educational standpoint, not from the standpoint of finances and business. Hopefully, the intent of this shift is to
make the state legislators find value in UI, and higher education as a whole. But making UI run as a business should not be the route taken by the presidential committee when finding our new president. This is especially visualized by the inclusion of SEL president, Dave Whitehead. Though he is an important leader in the Moscow/Pullman community, he is not the most representative of the Moscow community from a ground level. To be honest, does Dave Whitehead know about the lived experiences of students, staff and faculty at the University of Idaho? The search committee does an alright job meeting the demographic outlook of UI. Representatives such as Mary Hasenoerl, Mya Pronschinske Groza and Chandra Zenner Ford, show an attempt to break the cookie cutter mold of the committee, but more representation throughout the university should have been made a higher priority. Though selections have already been made, hopefully the UI presidential search committee actually listens to the work of the subcommittees. The Administration and Faculty subcommittee
and the student subcommittee are sections of the UI community that will face the highest consequences when it comes to the choice of the president. The pivotal decision of choosing a new UI president will have an effect on the reputation of UI, the value of student’s degrees and the livelihood of faculty, more than any of those other groups The best type of marketing for anything is word of mouth and good experiences. If a failure is made due to ignoring the voices of students and faculty in the choice of the new UI president, students will not tell their juniors to come to UI.
Cody Roberts | Argonaut
University of Idaho president Scott Green
Young votes matter, and every voice deserves to be heard Voting is not just a responsibility for the older generation AJ Pearman ARGONAUT For many college students, voting can feel insignificant. It is easy to look at a ballot and wonder whether one vote will make a difference. With millions of Americans eligible to vote, it can seem like individual opinions get lost in the crowd. But that mindset is exactly why young people need to make their voices heard. Voting is one of the most direct ways Americans can participate in their government. It is not reserved for people who own homes, pay higher taxes or have decades of life experience. Young people are affected by government decisions just as much as older generations, and they deserve a say in the policies that will shape their futures. College students have plenty of reasons to care about elections. Tuition costs, student loans, housing affordability, health care, employment opportunities and education funding are all influenced by elected officials and government policies. These issues are not distant political debates. They affect students’ everyday lives. Yet young voters are often underrepresented at the polls. When younger generations do not vote, politicians have less incentive to prioritize the issues that matter to them. Elected officials pay attention to the people who consistently show up, and if young voters want their concerns taken seriously, they need to demonstrate that those concerns come with votes. The numbers show that young people are participating, but there is still room for improvement. According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts University, approximately 47% of Americans ages 18-29 voted in the 2024 presidential election. While that is a significant portion of young voters, it also means that more than half of eligible young Americans did not cast a ballot. The same organization estimated youth turnout at 50% in 2020 and 39% in 2016. These numbers demonstrate that young voters can become a larger force
in elections, but participation cannot be taken for granted. One common reason young people avoid voting is the belief that politics is too complicated or that their opinions do not align with either political party. Others feel disconnected from candidates or frustrated by the political system. Those feelings are understandable, especially when political conversations become increasingly divisive. However, not voting does not solve those problems. It simply removes another opportunity to influence the system. Voting also does not mean blindly supporting a political party or agreeing with every position a candidate holds. It means taking the time to understand the issues, research candidates and decide who best represents your values. People should feel comfortable voting differently from their friends, family members or classmates. The purpose of democracy is not to make everyone think alike. It is to give everyone an opportunity to participate, even when opinions differ. It is also important to recognize that voting matters beyond presidential elections. Local elections can have an immediate impact on students and their communi-
ties. City council members, school boards, state legislators and local officials make decisions about housing, public transportation, education, taxes and community resources. These positions may not receive the same national attention as presidential races, but their decisions can directly affect daily life. For University of Idaho students, voting is an opportunity to have a voice in the future of Idaho and the communities they call home. Whether someone is concerned about the cost of education, affordable housing, job opportunities or public safety, local and state elections provide an opportunity to support candidates who address those concerns. Another misconception is that voting only matters when an election is expected to be close. While a single vote may not determine every election, collective participation can change the outcome. When thousands of young people decide their votes do not matter, the result is an entire generation giving up its influence. If those same people participate, they become a voting block that candidates cannot afford to ignore. Young people should not wait until they are older to become involved in politics. The decisions being made today will affect
them for years to come. Waiting until an issue directly affects someone’s finances, education or future career may mean waiting until after the opportunity to influence that decision has passed. Voting is not just about choosing who holds office. It is about taking responsibility for the direction of the country and the communities people live in. Everyone has the right to disagree with political decisions, but participating in elections is one of the best ways to make those disagreements count. No one should feel that their age, experience or individual vote makes their voice less important. Democracy only works when people participate, and that includes young people. If younger generations want to see change, they cannot afford to sit out the process. The next time Election Day comes around, take the time to register, research the candidates and cast a ballot. It may seem like a small action, but millions of individual votes are what make democracy work. Your vote matters, your voice matters, and the future should not be decided without you.
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
Left, Kathy Dawes, and Trish Carter-Goodheart, second from right, Idaho Democratic candidates at a One World election party Tuesday
Page 14
ARGONAUT
Thursday, Nov 5, 2026
Vandal pride shouldn’t come with a high price tag Expensive merchandise makes it hard to show the Vandal pride AJ Pearman ARGONAUT Being a Vandal is something students at the University of Idaho take pride in. Whether that be wearing a sweatshirt to class, supporting the football team or showing off the school’s colors. Vandal merchandise is one of the easiest ways to represent the university. However, for many students, purchasing that merchandise is not as simple as walking into the VandalStore and picking something out. College is already expensive. Between tuition, housing, groceries and textbooks. Students have plenty of expenses to worry about. Spending extra money on a sweatshirt or T-shirt is not always realistic. Especially when merchandise can still feel overpriced after being moved to the clearance section. The clearance rack is supposed to be where students can find affordable options. Instead, students may walk into the VandalStore hoping to find a good deal, only to realize that even discounted clothing is outside their budget. When students must
debate whether buying a sweatshirt is worth spending money that could go towards groceries, there is clearly a problem with affordability. Nobody expects the university to give away merchandise for free. The VandalStore is a business, and selling officially licensed university clothing comes with expenses. However, there should be a better balance between making money and making merchandise accessible to the students who represent the university every day, Students are some of the biggest supporters of UI. They attend sporting events, participate in campus activities and help create the atmosphere that makes being a Vandal special. It seems unfair that the same students who contribute so much to campus culture can’t afford to represent their school. One solution would be to offer more student-exclusive discounts throughout the semester. The VandalStore could also create a section specifically for affordable merchandise, with basic T-shirts, sweatshirts and other items priced with college students in mind. Clearance sales should provide meaningful savings rather than simply making expensive merchandise slightly less expensive. Another possibility would be offering special discounts during major campus
events, such as Homecoming or Vandal Giving Day. These events already encourage students to celebrate their connection to the university. Making merchandise more affordable during these times would give more students the opportunity to participate. School spirit should not depend on how much money someone has available to spend. Students should be able to walk around campus wearing the Vandal logo without feeling like they made a major
financial decision just to purchase a sweatshirt. The University of Idaho constantly encourages students to take pride in being Vandals. That pride is already there. The university just needs to make it easier for students to show it. At the end of the day, Vandal merchandise should be something students are excited to buy, not something they have to save up for.
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
Students cheering on the Vandals at the womens soccer game against Southern Utah
Exciting campaign brings disappointment during historic midterms Todd Achillies’s bid for an Idaho senate seat falls short in the 2026 midterms Amelie Dobler ARGONAUT Todd Achillies’ campaign for senate brought hope of a new face to Idaho’s delegation as an independent. While the efforts were immense and initial polls showed a chance of success, these measures quickly fell short when election night finally rolled around. As most of America was experiencing a new party in charge and riding what has been dubbed the “blue tsunami,” Idaho remains one of the few states to be left unchanged in the federal government. At the beginning of election night, initial votes showed unexpected success for Achillies as the independent starting with a 52% and incumbent Jim Risch, the winner of the senate seat in Idaho’s republican primary and the current incumbent, with a 39.5%. As the night went on, however, the margin quickly closed and Jim Risch won the reelection with 56.5% of the vote. Achillies
ended with 33.5%, disappointing prior to the expectations of success. While Achillies was not expected to fully win the election by the general voter population, his campaign set expectations of a closer race. Achillies was not the only independent who lost across the US amidst the major democratic victories who ran on wide scale anti-Trump sentiments. Achillies held a similar strategy within his advertising basing much of his campaign on why he believed Risch is unfit for office, capturing the attention of Risch’s adversaries. Achillies also used part of the anti-Washington ideology in his campaign to capture the attention of moderate or democrat voters in the state. Despite these efforts however, they were not enough to flip one of Idaho’s long held republican incumbent seats despite the success of other opposition candidates in historically republican states such as Texas or Kansas. While Achillies’ campaign fell short in the eyes of hopeful voters, the bid for Idaho’s District 2 House seat brought a closer margin between the democrat and republican candidate. Mike Simpson won reelection for a 15th term by 51.6% of the votes. Ellie Gilbreath, the democratic
as o a u a sou s
candidate, brought tough competition in some counties, pulling in 40% of the votes overall. While Idaho is unexpected by most of its citizens to change representation across different party lines any time soon, the closing of the gap between Republican and Democrat or independent candidates in recent years could indicate a deeper desire for change spreading across the state. While Achillies did not win the election,
his campaign did receive a lot of attention and support across the state. If the same thinking and ideas continue, the future could bring new faces, or even new parties to Washington, D.C. The most recent midterm elections brought little change to the state’s leadership however; it also indicates change may be on the horizon. As younger voters continue to get more involved, the change may come faster than expected. wwew
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
Linda Pike shows her support for Todd Achilles while walking down Hayes Street in Moscow
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Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
People getting together for a watch party of the 2026 Midterm Election
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Halloween is too expensive for everday people From candy to costumes, higher costs are putting strain on wallets Amelie Dobler ARGONAUT With prices rising and daily life becoming more expensive, holidays such as Halloween have become unaffordable for many people. While Halloween traditions such as trick or treating and dressing up can often be made simple and affordable, those options are slimming as the cost of candy, clothing and food continues to rise. The cost-hike of candy available in stores is not something of imagination. AP reported that candy and gum prices have risen nearly 44% in the last five years. CBS reported that a 100-piece assorted bag of candy costs an average of $16.96 this year, which is up 71% from 2021. These higher costs come after the price of cocoa dramatically increased in January 2025. 70% of the world’s chocolate comes from West Africa, which was experiencing bad weather at the time however, while costs of chocolate have since dropped, supply disruptions caused
by the Iran war presented more uncertainty causing them to rise once again. It was reported that non-chocolate Halloween candy costs were down by an average of 3% this year. However, there was no effect on sales despite this. To help cut back on production costs, some companies are even changing the recipes of their beloved candies to include less chocolate, substituting it with cheaper ingredients. Companies like Hershey’s have received criticism and backlash over this decision, reverting their recipes back to the originals for future production. These price hikes of candy come while grocery prices are up an average of 22.5% as reported by AP. While Halloween is meant to bring communities together, the higher costs associated with the holiday are putting vulnerable communities at risk of missing out on the festivities all together. Higher costs are also affecting textiles and materials used in clothing, making the perfectly curated costume no longer a question of “what to wear” but rather “what is affordable.” CNN reported that consumers are feeling constrained by high inflation when shopping for clothes. It is also reported that many younger generations are turning to thrift shops as the cheaper alternative to
big-box stores. The rising costs are putting a damper on fun events the Halloween season brings, increasing the stress felt by rising costs all across the country. What were once fun and celebratory weekends are now economic propositions. Giving out candy to children, dressing up as your favorite superhero or hosting a party with spooky treats is still possible for now, but as costs only continue to rise, the traditions may be slowly dying because they are simply unaffordable.
Iain Crimmins | Argonaut
House extremely decorated for Halloween
Grades are a high price for a missed class Many professors use grades as motivators for attendance, but is this policy fair? Tilly Magness ARGONAUT Waking up and going to class is a struggle many students relate to. Staying in a warm bed and the comfort of sleep is so tempting. Plenty of students succumb to this temptation, but most students groggily get ready to make it to class on time. But what is this invisible force that makes students motivated? Most material and lectures are posted on canvas nowadays, and a quick text to a classmate can get a student whatever extra notes they need. The answer is grades. Some classes, especially 1000-level, have some sort of grade based on attendance. Multiple absences can add-up to a detrimental and sometimes unfixable mark on a student’s final grade. Many students already take attendance as seriously as grades. Freshman Bella Valencia shared her perspective on harsh attendance, saying “Personally, I make an effort to show up, so attendance doesn’t affect me.” Harsh attendance may not disturb Valencia’s current school life, but she continues to say that she is “fully supportive” of attendance being grade related. Valencia is a biology major, which results in classes being significantly more lecture-based, and may need further professor instruction. Obviously, class is the main thing students go to college for. Although many students
should be able to have a social life outside of class, academics should be their main concern. Valencia’s attitude stems from a source of appreciating her education and holding in high regard. Valencia’s perspective on attendance may be different than many, because of her personal experiences. Overall, it’s hard to understand if attendance should actually be related to grades at all. Journalism and film major, Jackson Taylor, says that all his professors have different philosophies on attendance, just like students. Most professors are extremely understanding and responsible when considering attendance; they understand the need of balance between life and school. But despite this, Taylor still thinks attendance should be a high priority. “I feel like if you’re paying for it, you should kind of care about attendance,” Taylor said. This reasoning can also be the main argument for why attendance should be more lenient. If students are paying for their classes, shouldn’t they be able to decide where they spend their energy? Most attendance arguments can be denounced by the simple fact that college
students are adults, and they should be able to decide whether something is important to them. Professors may never decide to give students the benefit of the doubt and let them skip any class they want. But it’s only because they want students to succeed, and missing classes does the opposite of that. Professors, although it may not seem like
it, mostly have students’ interests at heart. They care about who they’re teaching, and they want students to be interested. To accompany this, professors need to understand that not all missed classes are malicious. It’s about finding a middle ground between student and professor, to create the least amount of stress for everyone.
Jaelynn Durels | Argonaut
Students at the Career Fair in the Kibbie Dome
Students are expected to do too much From course load to clubs, modern university students are expected to take on too much responsibility Amelie Dobler ARGONAUT Between classwork, jobs, clubs and other campus organizations, students are expected to maintain extremely busy schedules while still performing to the highest standard. It has become increasingly more common to see and experience symptoms of burnout while workloads only continue to increase. Students nowadays are expected to do too much, and they are struggling to keep up. As tuition, cost of living, and all expenses rise, having a job or some form of income in college has become a necessity for the majority. Balancing a full-time course load and a part, or even a full-time job, is now a common sight that just decades ago was not needed. Having multiple incomes is also necessary for many students as tuition and housing costs are rising and only continue to do so. This adds stress of financial issues to attending a university which heavily assists in feelings of burnout. Students are generally often expected to get involved on campus outside of class time. Clubs may not seem like they will take up much time in a person’s day, but being an active and engaged member does. From
hosting events to holding a leadership position, being involved in a club on campus can quickly become a significant task that takes many resources and a large time commitment. This comes already on top of the regular responsibilities of being a student who also has a life and commitments outside of anything related to the university they attend. Athletes are yet another group of students that are expected to uphold the highest of standards and performance while maintaining the same “college experience” as their peers. Student athletes practice for hours each day and attend all games or competitions of their given sport. Their success can also dictate a further mental load to carry. Success and winning could mean a boost in moral but also an extended season and increased strain they may take to play. Losing only worsens morals and overtime depletes motivation, or passion that made all the hard work in the sport worth it. Another common form of involvement at UI is becoming a member of Greek life. Members of Greek organizations participate in events and in their chapters even outside of the school year. The time commitments can often be intense for many students who are
also further involved with other organizations across campus in addition to their sorority or fraternity. Across the board, students are burnt out and expected to take on immensely timeconsuming responsibilities with minimal resources and abilities. While being involved on campus is important and often a transformative part of a person’s college experience, the extent of which has become unsustainable.
Expecting students to maintain good grades, leadership positions and opportunities across campus all while managing potential financial struggles is negatively affecting the upcoming generation’s future. While the heavy tasks and responsibilities may be manageable for some, expecting it from everyone is unrealistic. By putting too much on students, their success will only suffer and as a result, the organizations and classes they are part of will too.
Jaelynn Durels | Argonaut
Students at the Career Fair in the Kibbie Dome
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YOUR HEALTH IS PERSONAL. YOUR CARE SHOULD BE TOO. ppgwni.org
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026