Republican Idaho Gov. Brad Little won a third term in the November 3 election, defeating Democrat Terri Pickens and independent John Stegner.
Little thanked Idaho voters and highlighted tax relief, economic development, government reserves and investments in rural health care during his administration. “I am grateful and humbled by Idahoans’ continued confidence and support,” he said in a November 4 statement.
Little received approximately 57% of the vote in the November 3 election, with Democratic challenger Terri Pickens finishing second at roughly 32%. Independent John Stegner also drew a notable share of the vote.
The Republican governor first won office in 2018 and was reelected in 2022. His latest victory gives him a third consecutive four-year term, a relatively uncommon accomplishment in Idaho’s gubernatorial history.
“I am grateful and humbled by Idahoans’ continued confidence and support, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together over the past eight years,” Little said in a November 4 statement.
Little pointed to Idaho’s economy, rising wages and household incomes, job growth, tax reductions and financial reserves as accomplishments of his administration. He also cited measures intended to strengthen rural health care and public safety.
“We have delivered record tax relief, returned billions to Idaho taxpayers, maintained one of the strongest fiscal positions in the country, strengthened rural healthcare, and made our communities safer,” he said.
The governor has promoted fiscal restraint while encouraging economic development, infrastructure spending and workforce training. Idaho’s growth has also presented challenges involving housing, schools and public services in fast-growing communities.
Pickens campaigned as an alternative to Republican leadership, while Stegner, a former state Supreme Court justice, appealed to voters dissatisfied with the major parties. Republicans nevertheless maintained their statewide advantage.
Little thanked campaign supporters and said his next term would focus on preserving Idaho’s way of life and creating opportunities for future generations. He will begin his new term in January 2027.
Little first took office in 2019 after previously serving as lieutenant governor. His new term begins in January 2027. The outcome continued Republican control of Idaho’s executive branch as the governor outlined plans to maintain fiscal policies and expand economic opportunities.