Idaho Needs Leaders Like You
Idaho needs more leaders who are ready to solve real problems. From city councils to the statehouse, we need Democrats to run for office and fight for the future our communities deserve.
Too many of the people in power are out of step with what most Idahoans want. They keep underfunding public schools, restricting access to healthcare, and ignoring the needs of working families. We’re last in the nation for education funding, and when we top the lists, it’s often for all the wrong reasons.
Running for office is your chance to make a difference. You’ll build a network, stand up for your community, and help move Idaho forward. It’s tough work, but it matters.
We’re organizing in every county and investing in the tools candidates need to win. If you’re ready to lead, we’re ready to help.
Offices on the Ballot in 2026
In 2026, Idaho voters will elect leaders for all seven statewide executive offices: Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Controller, Superintendent of Public Instruction, and Treasurer. All 105 seats in the Legislature, including 35 in the Senate and 70 in the House, will also be on the ballot, along with two Idaho Supreme Court seats.
At the federal level, voters will choose a U.S. Senator and elect representatives for both congressional districts. Local and county elections will include races for commissioners, sheriffs, school boards, and more. This election will shape the direction of Idaho government at every level, from the Statehouse to city halls across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it take to run for office?
Running for office is a big commitment, but it’s also one of the most meaningful ways to serve your community. First and foremost, it takes a willingness to engage with your neighbors—listening, learning, and leading with their needs in mind. You’ll need to be comfortable asking for support, especially when it comes to fundraising. Campaigns take money, and successful candidates aren’t afraid to ask for it again and again. Strong time management, a resilient spirit, and a dedication to the long haul are also essential. Running for office as a Democrat means stepping up as a standard-bearer for the party’s values and helping shape the conversation statewide. Voters will look at your record, so it’s important to talk openly with your campaign team about anything in your background that might come up.
What are the legal requirements to run?
To run for office in Idaho, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, a resident of Idaho, and legally qualified to vote. You cannot run if you have been convicted of a felony without having your rights restored, or if you have been adjudicated mentally incompetent to vote. Some offices have additional qualifications, such as residency in a specific district or different age requirements, so it is important to review the specific rules for the office you are considering. You will need to file a Declaration of Candidacy and submit Form C-1 to establish your campaign finance account and appoint a treasurer. Filing typically takes place in March and marks your official entry into the race. Visit the “Running for Office” button in the Candidate Resources section to see the exact requirements for each office.
What office should I run for?
If you’re thinking about stepping up to lead, consider running for the Idaho Legislature. The Legislature is the source of Idaho’s biggest problems, and it’s also where we can make the most powerful change. For years, a Republican supermajority has pushed an out-of-touch agenda that has defunded our schools, stripped away freedoms, and sold out working families. They’re not solving Idaho’s problems. They’re making them worse.
And they’ve gotten away with it because too many seats have gone uncontested for too long. That ends now. Running a Democrat in every district, especially the tough ones, shows that we’re not backing down. It tells the supermajority that their grip on Idaho isn’t inevitable, and it gives voters a real choice for a better future.
Even in hard races, your voice matters. Your campaign can challenge their narrative, shift public opinion, and inspire others to step up too. When Democrats run, we change the conversation. We build the future Idaho deserves.
What does running in 2026 look like?
Running for office is a process that unfolds over many months and starts well before Election Day. In the fall and winter of 2025, you’ll begin seriously thinking through your decision, talking with trusted friends and family, and laying the groundwork, like organizing your core team, setting up a bank account, and preparing to meet campaign finance requirements. You’ll also start shaping your message and identifying the issues you want to focus on.
In the spring, you’ll officially file to get on the ballot. From there, your focus shifts to reaching voters, raising money, and building name recognition. Throughout the summer and fall, you’ll continue growing your campaign, talking with voters, and building momentum. As Election Day approaches, your priority becomes making sure your supporters turn out to vote. Whether you win or lose, running for office is a powerful way to serve your community and help shape Idaho’s future.
How Your Party Can Help
When you run for office as a Democrat in Idaho, you gain more than just a party label, you gain a team. The Idaho Democratic Party is here to provide the tools, guidance, and network you need to launch and sustain a competitive campaign. Whether you’re running in a small town or a statewide race, you won’t be in it alone.
Powerful Tools and Data
One of the biggest advantages Democratic candidates have is access to the Voter Activation Network (VAN). Provided free of charge, VAN is a powerful data platform that helps you identify, contact, and mobilize the voters most likely to support your campaign. It is the gold standard for voter contact used by Democratic campaigns nationwide.
With VAN, you can:
- Target likely supporters based on voting history and modeled dataTrack door-knocking, phone calls, and outreach progress
- Create custom lists for canvassing, texting, or phone banking
- Identify and engage low-propensity voters who are often overlooked
- Run a more efficient and strategic campaign with limited resources
A Network Behind You
Beyond data, you’ll have a built-in community ready to help you succeed. The Idaho Democratic Party and your local county party are here to support you with advice, connections, and hands-on help throughout your campaign. When you run as a Democrat, you’re joining a network of people who believe in building a better future for Idaho.
With party support, you can:
- Connect with local party leaders, volunteers, and organizers
- Access campaign trainings and strategic guidance
- Receive help planning events and grassroots outreach
- Amplify your message through party communication channels
- Build relationships with donors and Democratic leaders across Idaho
