Full Breakdown
Controversy Erupts Over Brownface Testimony in Idaho House Committee
2/27/2026, 7:22:47 AM
Incident Overview: David Pettinger's Testimony
On February 23, 2023, during a public hearing of the Idaho House Business Committee, far-right activist David Pettinger testified in support of House Bill 704, which mandates businesses to verify employees' legal status. Pettinger appeared in brownface makeup, sunglasses, and a wig, initially speaking in a fake Spanish accent and claiming he did not speak English. His performance included phrases like “El Jefe, Amigos” and “No hablo inglés.” After Democratic Representative Steve Berch objected, the committee entered a brief “at ease” session to discuss how to handle the situation. Ultimately, Pettinger was allowed to continue his testimony in English while still in costume.
Reactions from Lawmakers
Representative Berch expressed surprise upon returning from the break to find Pettinger still testifying in brownface, stating he would have preferred Pettinger be removed. Vice Chair Josh Wheeler acknowledged that allowing Pettinger to testify in that manner was inappropriate, admitting he would have preferred a different outcome had he been more prepared. Berch noted that Wheeler was new to the role of acting chair and faced an unusual situation.
Advocacy Groups Respond
The incident drew widespread condemnation from advocacy groups, including the ACLU of Idaho, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, and the Idaho Queer Caucus. They criticized the committee for violating its own rules of decorum, which prohibit demonstrations during meetings. Mistie DelliCarpini-Tolman, a regional political director for Planned Parenthood, described the event as a “profound failure of leadership and accountability,” while Ruby Mendez-Mota, ACLU of Idaho's interim advocacy director, emphasized that lawmakers must represent all constituents, regardless of race or language.
Criticism of Committee Actions
Critics highlighted that allowing Pettinger’s testimony amounted to an “overtly racist action.” Nikson Mathews, chair of the Idaho Queer Caucus, testified against HB 704 shortly after Pettinger and condemned the committee's decision to allow his testimony. Mathews stated, “That man should have been removed from this room,” before being interrupted by Wheeler. The ACLU and other organizations called for accountability from committee members, asserting that Pettinger’s actions were a clear mockery of Latinos in Idaho.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While some lawmakers, including Berch, acknowledged the inappropriateness of Pettinger’s testimony, others defended the committee's handling of the situation. Berch noted that Wheeler's decision-making was complicated by his inexperience as acting chair. The incident has raised questions about the committee's adherence to its own rules and the treatment of different speakers during the hearing.
What's Next
The fallout from this incident continues, with advocacy groups demanding accountability from the House Business Committee. Calls for an apology from committee members have been made, emphasizing the need for serious policy discussions free from racist theatrics. The incident has sparked broader discussions about decorum and representation in Idaho's legislative processes.
