Richard Cheatum

Richard Cheatum was born in western Kansas and raised on a farm. He holds a B.S. in broadcast journalism from the University of Kansas. Cheatum spent over three decades in diverse roles within radio, automobile sales, and credit unions before retiring and entering public service. He has served on the Pocatello City Council since 2017, including a term as Council President. Cheatum's professional and community involvement spans leadership roles in local government, business associations, and conservation efforts, earning him multiple recognitions for his service.

Richard Cheatum's political identity is marked by a distinctive blend of local economic advocacy and robust environmental stewardship. His legislative efforts consistently prioritize supporting local businesses in Pocatello and Bannock County, suggesting a highly localized economic strategy. Simultaneously, Cheatum's deep involvement in wildlife conservation, including leadership roles in fish and game committees, reveals an unexpected commitment to environmental issues. This juxtaposition of local economic interests with conservation efforts creates a compelling conceptual tension in Cheatum's policy framework.