Idaho Democratic Party names new executive director

Idaho Democratic Party Chair Bert Marley announced today that the State Party has hired Elle Casner to serve as the new Executive Director -- heading into the 2018 election cycle. Casner has served as the Party’s Chief Financial Officer for the past two years.

“Elle’s experience in the fundraising and political sector will serve the organization well as we lay the groundwork and strategy to expand our programming in 2018,” Marley said. “We look forward to having her leadership and knowledge of the Idaho political landscape to take our mission to the next level.” 

Casner is a third-generation Idahoan, comes from Basque heritage, and is a native of Boise. She earned her B.B.A. in Accounting and Finance from Boise State University. 

Casner formerly served as the Deputy Finance Director for the Balukoff for Idaho campaign, and as the lead fundraiser for the Marley for Lieutenant Governor campaign. Casner also led the fundraising efforts for Mayor Dave Bieter’s 2015 reelection campaign.  

According to a news release from the Idaho Democratic Party, Casner has directed the fundraising efforts for the State Party’s marquee event, the Frank and Bethine Church Gala, and quadrupled profits since taking over the team in 2015. Elle enjoys hiking in the Boise foothills, exploring the backwoods, and rafting on Idaho’s rivers.  

“This is one of the toughest states for Democrats, but we’ve responded to adversity by growing, getting stronger, and gaining momentum,” Casner said. 

We know that when more Idahoans hear about the Idaho Democratic Party’s values and solutions, more Idahoans inevitably understand that we are truly the Party that fights for the best interests of Idaho’s workers, families, businesses, and communities.”