Idaho’s 2026 Primary Field Finalized as Filing Window Closes

Posted by Zach Forster on March 5, 2026

Last Friday, February 27, the filing deadline for the 2026 election cycle closed at 5:00 p.m. This is always a highly anticipated moment, as it reveals who will face primary challengers in the upcoming 2026 Primary and General Elections.

As expected, Governor Brad Little officially announced and filed to run for a third term as Idaho’s Governor. In his announcement, Governor Little stated, “…we’ve made Idaho the most prosperous state in the nation while fiercely defending our enduring core values – faith, family, and freedom. We delivered historic tax relief and made record investments in schools, public safety, and infrastructure to protect our exceptional quality of life, and we’re not slowing down.”

Governor Little will face several primary challengers in the May 19 election, most notably Mark Fitzpatrick, owner of the Old State Street Saloon in Eagle. Should he win the Republican primary, he will go on to face the winners of the Democratic, Libertarian, and Independent primaries in November. In a somewhat surprising development, retired Supreme Court Justice John Stegner has also announced a campaign for governor as an Independent.

All 105 legislative seats across Idaho’s 35 legislative districts will also be on the ballot this year – one Senate member and two House members from each district. As we get closer to the primary election, we will provide a deeper look at the key races we are watching.

Posted in Advocacy on the Move, Idaho Advocacy.