Rick Cheatum

Rick Cheatum is a Republican member of the Idaho House of Representatives representing District 28A. Born and raised on a farm near Syracuse, Kansas, he moved to Idaho in 1977 to manage a Pocatello radio station. He has been married to Debra for 32 years and has a daughter, Nicole.

Cheatum is known for his involvement in outdoor recreation and conservation. He is a life member of the National Rifle Association and the Pocatello Trap Club, and maintains memberships in several hunting and fishing organizations including the Idaho Chapter of Safari Club International, the Southeast Mule Deer Foundation, and Ducks Unlimited. He describes himself as a moderate conservative who believes the best government is closest to the electorate.

Education

Cheatum holds a Bachelor of Science degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Kansas.

Political Experience

Before entering the Idaho House of Representatives, Cheatum built a diverse career in business and public service. His professional background includes positions in radio broadcasting, automobile sales, and credit union management. He retired in 2017 and subsequently pursued elected office.

He was elected to the Pocatello City Council in 2017 and re-elected in 2021, serving as Council President in 2022 and 2023. In these roles, he was assigned as council liaison to various commissions and organizations, including the Pocatello Airport Commission, the Pocatello Development Authority, and the Southeastern Idaho Community Action Agency. He also serves as a regional director of the Association of Idaho Cities.

Cheatum was first elected to the Idaho House of Representatives in 2022 and is currently seeking a third term representing District 28A. He is an active member of the Bannock County Republican Party and has served in leadership roles within local civic organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce and Portneuf Valley Partners.