The Caldwell Night Rodeo enforces a gun‑free zone that strips law‑abiding Idahoans of their rights and creates a false sense of security at one of the state’s most iconic community events.

For years, the Idaho Second Amendment Alliance has warned that gun‑free zones do not stop violent individuals; they simply disarm the very people who follow the law. Yet the Caldwell Night Rodeo continues to impose a firearm ban that ignores Idaho’s culture, Idaho’s Constitution, and Idaho’s long‑standing commitment to personal responsibility.

“Gun‑free zones don’t make anyone safer – they make citizens more vulnerable,” said Greg Pruett, President of the Idaho Second Amendment Alliance. “Rodeos are a proud Idaho tradition, but banning firearms at a public event sends the wrong message in a state that values liberty and personal responsibility.”

The rodeo’s long-standing policy forces Idahoans into an unacceptable choice: attend a major public event unarmed, or stay home. Families who simply want to enjoy a night at the rodeo are told that their rights end at the gate, even though criminals, by definition, do not obey signs, fences, or rules.

This is not just a policy disagreement. It’s a direct challenge to the spirit of Idaho’s firearm preemption law. ISAA has long argued that private organizations operating on public property should not be allowed to impose restrictions that cities and counties themselves are prohibited from enforcing. The Idaho Supreme Court, however, says that it is private property for the duration of the event.

“Idahoans shouldn’t have to choose between attending community events and exercising their rights,” Pruett added. “We’re urging the Caldwell Night Rodeo and other venues across the state to reconsider these misguided policies and stand with the people, not against them.”

The Idaho Second Amendment Alliance remains committed to strengthening Idaho’s firearm preemption law so that every city, county, and public event respects the fundamental right to keep and bear arms. These protections are more than policy — they are a promise to Idahoans. While the legislature continues to stall, ISAA will keep pressing forward until that promise is fulfilled.

ISAA encourages supporters to respectfully voice their concerns to event organizers and local officials. The organization will continue advocating for legislation that prohibits gun‑free zones on public property and ensures Idaho remains a national leader in Second Amendment protections.