Idaho Republicans Sweep Statewide Elections, Retain Legislative Supermajorities

Idaho Republicans retained the governorship, U.S. Senate seat and both House districts in the November 3 elections while preserving veto-proof majorities in the Legislature.

Gov. Brad Little won a third term over Democrat Terri Pickens and independent John Stegner. Republican Sen. Jim Risch defeated independent Todd Achilles and other challengers. Reps. Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson retained their congressional seats. Republicans also swept the state’s executive offices, including attorney general and secretary of state.

U.S. Sen. Jim Risch won another six-year term with approximately 401,800 votes, or 56.5%. Independent Todd Achilles finished second with about 238,300, or 33.5%, while other candidates divided the rest.

Republican Reps. Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson defended both U.S. House districts. Fulcher received roughly 64% in District 1, while Simpson won District 2 with around 52% against Democrat Ellie Gilbreath and minor-party opponents.

Gov. Brad Little won a third term with approximately 407,000 votes, or 57.1%, ahead of Democrat Terri Pickens and independent John Stegner. Little cited tax reductions, fiscal reserves and economic growth as central accomplishments of his administration.

The party also won other statewide posts, including lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state and superintendent of public instruction. Republicans retained the political advantage they have held in Idaho for decades.

Democrats gained approximately five seats in the 70-member state House, moving from about nine seats to 14. They also gained one Senate seat, although Republicans retained two-thirds majorities in both chambers.

Several Democratic victories occurred in western Boise’s District 15, the Magic Valley and Pocatello. Those advances revealed increased competitiveness in selected districts but did not come close to shifting legislative control.

Voters defeated Proposition 1, which would have restored abortion access through fetal viability. Supporters argued the initiative would protect reproductive autonomy; opponents argued that existing restrictions better protect unborn life.

A constitutional amendment granting the Legislature exclusive authority to legalize marijuana and certain other substances was rejected by about two-thirds of voters. Another amendment establishing English as Idaho’s official language passed with roughly 63% support.

The election left Idaho’s statewide Republican leadership intact while giving the Democratic legislative minority a somewhat stronger presence as the 2027 session approaches.

Democrats gained legislative seats in Boise, the Magic Valley and Pocatello, narrowing but not eliminating Republican supermajorities. Voters rejected Proposition 1, which would have expanded abortion access, and HJR 4, which would have restricted citizen-initiated legalization of certain psychoactive substances. Voters approved HJR 6, establishing English as the official state language.

By: Politics406 Newswire