Idaho’s longest-serving Democratic Representative Sue Chew dies [Video]

BOISE, Idaho — Idaho’s longest-serving Democratic Representative, Sue Chew, has died. She represented Boise’s District 17 for 18 years. 

Sen. Melissa Wintrow (D), confirmed the news to KTVB late Wednesday night. Wintrow said Chew truly loved public service and problem-solving. 

Rep. Chew was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2023. She was a licensed pharmacist and served on several committees over her nine terms at the Idaho Statehouse.

In May 2023, KTVB spoke with Chew, who shared her early beginnings of growing up in the Bay area in California during the civil rights era, witnessing and experiencing discrimination, moving to the Gem State, and eventually becoming an advocate for the state’s Asian community.

On June 21, 2023, the Idaho Press reported that Chew said she was ready to step down from her seat. She endorsed Natalie MacLachlan to run for Bosie’s District 17.

The Idaho …