Some Idaho gun owners say they will boycott the Caldwell Night Rodeo (CNR) due to its controversial “gun-free zone” policy.
In a state that understands gun-free zones are soft targets—not safety measures—many Idahoans are stunned that a rodeo, of all places, would adopt such a policy. Criminals don’t follow signs, and disarming law-abiding citizens only makes public events more vulnerable.
Several gun owners have publicly stated they won’t attend CNR this year, citing the event’s anti-self-defense stance.
This raises a critical legal question: Can a private organization ban firearms on public property?
Idaho’s preemption law was designed to prevent local governments from enacting gun restrictions. In theory, this should apply to public property leased by private entities. However, a ruling by the Idaho Supreme Court allows cities like Caldwell to delegate that authority—meaning the city itself can’t ban guns, but it can let a private group do so.
We strongly disagree.
That loophole undermines the spirit of Idaho’s preemption law and the rights of gun owners statewide. It’s one reason we’re fighting to strengthen the law—so private entities must respect the right to keep and bear arms when using public property.
As for CNR, we adamantly oppose their gun-free zone policy and urge Idahoans to stand with us. Sign the petition today and help us send a clear message: Idaho stands for self-defense.
Note: CNR thumbnail image courtesy of Roger Hunt.
3 replies on “Caldwell Night Rodeo Sparks Backlash for Banning Guns”
Unless and until this foolish and dangerous policy is permanently revoked, my presence and any associated monies will also…be revoked. HARD pass…
I was upset that I had to take my gun to the car a half a mile away. This is America and Idaho, WTH it is m American duty to keep everyone safe
I found out on the way there, I had to leave my gun on the car… what are great places for a banger to smash n grab- it was a dark, unattended lot. 10 min later the bus dropped us at the front gates where will call could not locate our ticket, so a nice man came and took us through, without going through the security wand area. Additionally, the contestant gates were open, on both street side and grounds.. Anyone who had bad motives could have used either method to get through…. leaving hundreds of people vulnerable. lastly, dont call it patriot night, celebrate veterans, give away a gun and deny our 2nd amendment rights. This is Idaho-