From Caldwell, FOr Caldwell
Let us campaign today for a better tomorrow!
Eric Phillips for Caldwell
Welcome
My name is Eric Phillips, and I'm running for Mayor of Caldwell in November of 2025
Motto
Citizen Centric Governance
When governments deliver services based on the needs of the people they serve, they can increase public satisfaction and reduce costs.
The Platform
Serving The Community
- Citizen-Focused and Citizens-First Decision Making
- Accountability to the Citizens
- Public Safety and Community Well-Being
- Fiscal Responsibility & Government Transparency
- A Focus on Infrastructure and Responsible Infill Growth
- Local Business Support and Economic Development
- Community Services and Veteran Support
About Me
I am a 4th-generation (born) Idahoan whose family has been here since the early 1900s. Born at Mercy Medical Hospital, but grew up in Caldwell. I entered the U.S. Navy in July 2000, after graduating from Vallivue High School in 2000.
Bio
Rooted in Service. Driven by Purpose. Committed to Caldwell
Eric Phillips is a lifelong Caldwell resident, Vallivue High School graduate (Class of 2000), and former FFA member with deep agricultural roots. At 42, he brings over 20 years of public service—spanning the U.S. Navy, law enforcement, and school safety leadership. Now, he’s running for mayor to ensure Caldwell grows responsibly while preserving the quality of life that makes it such a special place to live and raise a family.
A Life of Service
Eric enlisted in the Navy after high school, serving four years on active duty before joining the Reserves. He has deployed on a Western Pacific cruise, as well as to the Middle East twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, with service at Balad Airbase in Iraq, and a Mediterranean cruise in support of anti-terrorism operations off the coast of Libya. He completed a total of seven years of active duty, with the remaining 13 years in the reserves. Eric earned multiple awards and medals while serving his country.
In 2008, while still in the Reserves, he became a Caldwell Police Officer, proudly serving the city of Caldwell and the department for 15 years. He earned two lifesaving medals during his police career, including one for reviving a woman using CPR. He also survived a head-on collision with a drunk driver that led to an officer-involved shooting. This experience tested his resilience and deepened his commitment to protecting others.
Innovative School Safety Leader
In 2023, Eric transitioned into a new role as Director of Student Safety and Emergency Operations for the Caldwell School District. There, he led the implementation of modern emergency protocols and training programs. He also explored creating a dedicated school police department for the district—an initiative featured in local news, highlighting his forward-thinking approach to school and community safety.
Building a Stronger Community
In 2021, Eric launched the Caldwell, Idaho Community and Crime Facebook group, which now has more than 26,000 members. The page began as a space for sharing community businesses as we emerged from the COVID shutdowns, and they were struggling. The page evolved to feature digestible city council clips and celebrate local wins, and has since become a civic platform. Eric used it to spotlight local government decisions, rally citizens, and lead successful efforts to stop paid downtown parking meters. He’s also been a vocal advocate against the proposed Marriott hotel project on the “dirt lot,” standing up for transparency and community values.
Family First
Eric is a husband and is also a father to a miracle son born in 2023 after years of struggling; his son is his greatest joy and proudest achievement. He also serves as the president of his neighborhood HOA and enjoys exploring Idaho’s backcountry through camping, off-roading, and traveling. No matter where life has taken him, Caldwell has always been home.
Why Eric?
Eric Phillips brings proven leadership, integrity, and a genuine love for Caldwell. He’s not a politician, he’s a protector, a listener, and a neighbor who believes in accountability and results. As mayor, he’ll fight for safe neighborhoods, responsible growth, and a city government that works for the people.
Political Affiliation
Serving the citizens
As a Mayor, I serve all citizens of Caldwell, regardless of their political affiliation, but I am a registered Republican who strongly believes in being a constitutional Republican. A government of the people and by the people.
Education
Caldwell School District
- Kindergarten - 4th grade. (Lincoln - Van Buren)
Vallivue School District
- Graduated Class of 2000 (Central Canyon, Vallivue Jr. High, Vallivue High School)
College of Western Idaho
- Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice (2020) - Magna Cum Laude
- Associate of Arts in Political Science (2023) - Magna Cum Laude
Boise State University
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (2022) - Cum Laude
Arizona State University
Currently pursuing a Master's in Criminal Justice degree. Will graduate in 2026
Military Service
- U.S. Navy (Retired)
- (July 2000- December 2019)
- (Served 10 months in the Delayed Entry Program during my senior year until leaving in July).
- Served four deployments, which include two sea deployments and two land deployments.
- Served on board the U.S.S. Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and the U.S.S. Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58)
MEdia spotlight
Dirt Lot Hotel
Dirt Lot Hotel KTVB
SRO Police Department Research Project
Mayor's Race
Addressing Vaping Issues
Discussing School Safety
2015 Officer involved shooting on Canyon Hill
2023 City Council Race
Honoring Officer Chad Register
Discussing Military Service and Policing
Attacked by Council President Doty For Other Citizens Expressing Their 1st Amendment
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Please Consider contributing to protect Caldwell's future
- You can Venmo me @Eric_Phillips-287
- Drop off or send a check to 15681 Bridgeton Ave. Caldwell, Idaho 83607
- Deposit cash or a check to Clarity Credit Union in Caldwell, Nampa, or Middleton under account #33930.