From Idaho farm boy to Ike’s cabinet: The complicated legacy of Ezra Taft Benson

Ezra Taft Benson was a high-ranking leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when he was tapped by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to serve as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.The eastern Idaho Republican’s eight-year stint in Ike’s cabinet set the stage for decades of political involvement that would make him one of the most polarizing figures of the 20th century.This week on “It’s Worth Mentioning,” Rett Nelson speaks with Casey Griffiths, Brigham Young University Religion professor and co-host of the “Church History Matters” podcast, to discuss Benson’s church and political life.They begin by talking about his upbringing in Whitney — an unincorporated community near Preston — and how he got interested in agriculture and politics.RELATED | Eastern Idaho produced two U.S. agriculture chiefs, but Ezra Taft Benson was the most controversialGriffiths discusses the turn of events that set the stage for Eisenhower selecting Benson to serve with him, how church leaders felt about his appointment and Benson’s relationship with America’s 34th president.They delve into Benson’s accomplishments while in office and his political life after the Eisenhower Administration. It included an encounter with Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev. His involvement in a political battle with a Democratic Congressman from Idaho indirectly impacted the timing of the Teton Dam construction.RELATED | Remembering the Teton Dam collapse: Inside the failure and fight to rebuildGriffiths also discusses Benson’s support for the John Birch Society, a right-wing, anti-Communist political organization, and his controversial, politically themed addresses to church members from the pulpit.The conversation winds down with a discussion about Benson’s cultural and political influence on society today.It’s a fascinating conversation that you don’t want to miss!RELATED | Cindy Siddoway on family ranching, Hall of Fame honors and the future of Idaho agricultureWatch previous episodes of “It’s Worth Mentioning” here. Check out the show on Facebook. If you have a tip, guest idea, or comment, email rett@eastidahonews.com.