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They used to be known as the political fringe. But, thanks to crackpot radio hosts, Internet conspiracy theories and a general mistrust of government, the vigilantes who call themselves “militias” have gone mainstream and are headed south to Twin Falls.

The Idaho Lightfoot Militia is looking to recruit a “battalion” in Twin Falls and has made a call for members. The organization, made up largely of former members of the military and retired police, see themselves as the last defense against federal incursion. It’s all hogwash.

It’s not as if they have any real authority.

The Idaho Constitution lists three types of “militia” under the purview of the governor and the Legislature — the National Guard, the organized militia and the unorganized militia. But that same constitutional section requires appointment of officers by the governor. State officials recently told the Idaho Statesman that only two states — Washington and Louisiana — even have recognized organized militias.

None of the leadership of any of these groups in Idaho were appointed by the governor or vetted by the Legislature. They’re just angry dudes. Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter should step up and say as much.