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VOTE411 Voter Guide

Idaho Governor

The governor serves a 4-year term. The governor is the supreme executive power; appoints department heads and members of boards and commissions; issues executive orders which have the force and effect of law; and drafts and recommends a budget to the Idaho Legislature. The governor is president of the State Board of Examiners and chairman of the State Board of Land Commissioners.Candidates who filed as Independent (IND) will show up on the General Election Ballot November 8.

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    Sean Calvert Crystal
    (Rep)

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    Maxine Durand
    (Dem)

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    Mark Fitzpatrick
    (Rep)

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    Daniel C. Fowler
    (Rep)

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    Ethan Giles
    (Rep)

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    Ron James
    (Rep)

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    Jill C. Kirkham
    (Dem)

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    Brad Little
    (Rep)

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    Lisa Marie
    (Rep)

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    Terri Pickens
    (Dem)

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    Justin R. Plante
    (Rep)

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    Pro-Life
    (Con)

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    Melissa-Sue Robinson
    (Lib)

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    Paul Sand
    (Lib)

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    John R. Stegner
    (IND)

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    Chanelle Torrez
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

What experience has prepared you for this office?

What do you hope to accomplish if elected?

What do you see as the most significant challenges Idaho faces that you might be able to address in this position?

Is there anything else you wish to tell the voters?

Campaign Statement Elevate Idhao - Restoring Accountability, Strengthening Communities, Protecting Liberty
Campaign Phone 208-520-2150
Campaign Email seancrystalforidaho@gmail.com
Phone 208-520-2150
Office Sought Governor
I haven’t held political office, and I personally see that as a strength. My experience comes from building a business, managing people, and navigating the real impact of government policy in everyday life. I’ve spent years advocating, engaging in my community, and running grassroots campaigns without big funding or political backing. I understand what it means to operate under pressure, solve problems, and make decisions that actually affect people’s lives, not just talk about them.
I want to restore accountability and bring government back to its proper role. That means reducing unnecessary regulation, improving transparency, and making sure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. I want Idaho to be a place where people can build a life, start a business, and raise a family without feeling like the system is working against them. If we can create stability, opportunity, and trust in government again, that’s a win.
Rising costs, lack of long-term planning, and government overreach are at the core of many issues Idahoans are facing. Whether it’s healthcare, housing, or starting a business, people feel the pressure. We’ve also been reactive instead of proactive in how we govern. I can help bring a more practical, forward-looking approach that focuses on stability, accountability, and keeping Idaho a place where people can succeed.
I’m not a career politician, and I’m not backed by big money or special interests. I’m someone who lives here, works here, and wants to see Idaho thrive. You may not agree with me on everything, and that’s okay. What I will give you is honesty, accessibility, and a willingness to listen. If you’re tired of politics as usual, I’m asking you to take a serious look at what we’re building here. Let's Elevate Idaho together!
Campaign Statement People over Politics
Campaign Website http://durandforidaho.com
YouTube Video
X (formerly known as Twitter) @x.com/DurandForIdaho
Campaign Email campaign@durandforidaho.com
Office Sought Governor
I have worked in government and non-profits for 12 years, previously working for Idaho Medicaid, three public universities, and most recently, the City of Twin Falls, where I founded and managed the public transit system, Ride TFT. As a career public servant, I have the technical expertise needed to understand the inner workings of Idaho's state government, but I also have the political savvy to fight aggressively and appropriately against corruption, cronyism, and big business, and hold our state legislature accountable for their willful disregard for Idahoans best interests.
A complete transformation and overhaul of state government. We need to force out the politicians who answer only to the Good 'Ol Boys, special interests, and the wealthy, and fight for higher wages, more jobs, universal healthcare and education, and more, if we want Idaho to thrive. We are a growing state with needs in all areas that are not being addressed, and we need strong leadership that can rally the average Idahoan and fight for policies that actually benefit our lives.
Healthcare, education, and housing. These are the most pressing issues for all Idahoans, and this is why I am advocating for an Idaho-based "Medicare for All" program, an expansion to public education to include universal pre-K childcare and upping the curriculum so that high school grads automatically have a two-year associate's degree, and building new mixed-income public housing, among other policies which can be found on my website.
We need strong leadership, and we need to stop aiming for compromise with radicals on the right -- it is time we stood for bold action, large projects, and big ideas, and fought with everything we have. I am not a centrist, I am not a moderate, I am a pissed-off civil servant and I am tired of watching regular Idahoans suffer. If you believe in real progressive change and are tired of watching both Republicans and Democrats leave you behind, then I would be grateful for your vote on May 19th.
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Campaign Statement My name is Ethan Giles, I’ve been a resident of Idaho for almost 37 years and a graduate of Capital High. I’m running for Governor in the Republican Primary! I’m running for Governor to clean up our state debt. We must reverse those tax cuts that gave our surplus away! We must also redirect the school voucher program into special education.
Campaign Email cnon@aol.com
I have always wanted to hold the government accountable since adulthood.
I’m running for Governor to clean up our state debt.

We must reverse those tax cuts that gave our surplus away!

We must also redirect the school voucher program into special education.
Our state debt.
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Campaign Statement I believe the most conservative thing a person can do is start a family.
Campaign Website http://jillforidaho.com
YouTube Video
Campaign Phone 208-244-0779
Campaign Email jill@jillforidaho.com
Office Sought Governor
Most of my experience come from the private sector where merit determines results. I’m a mother, small business owner, political newcomer, founding Memeber of a charter school, and a former substitute teacher. Most of the experiences in my life have prepared me for this office by keeping me alongside those who are too often neglected in our political process.
On the whole, I want to make Idaho’s government more representative of the people I know from Idaho. These are people who work hard, but still struggle to make ends meet. When elected I plan to implement a fair tax system that protects essential services, invest in a quality education for all kids, and strengthen a family’s ability to stay and thrive, in Idaho.
Right now Idaho is facing an uphill battle in several areas. One is our budget deficit, another is the pillaging of funds meant for public education, along with a housing situation that doesn’t accommodate our emerging population. We need to be planning for growth, not reducing our ability to manage it.
I love Idaho. I want to die in my small town, and be buried in the mountains that surround it. It is a sanctuary of freedom, and stronghold for family values. That’s why we live here. Our leadership has failed us time, and time again. Now, is the time to right the direction of our state. Now is when we need to secure Idaho for the future generations of Idahoans. Doing what we have always done won’t get us there.
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Campaign Statement Terri Pickens is running for Governor to restore freedom, fairness, and opportunity by putting people first and ensuring every Idahoan has a voice in their future.
Campaign Website http://terriforidaho.com
YouTube Video
X (formerly known as Twitter) @@terriforidaho
Campaign Phone 208-841-5197
Campaign Email terri@terriforidaho.com
Phone 208-841-5197
Office Sought Governor
I have experience running a successful business as founder of Pickens Law, PA. I helped govern a large nonprofit as Chair of the Board of Directors of Planned Parenthood (PPGNHIK). I have worked with legislators, Republican and Democratic. My legal specialty is real estate and construction law, which provides a good foundation to take the lead addressing Idaho’s housing affordability and availability crisis. As a fourth generation Idahoan, I understand the deep currents of Native American sovereignty, religious freedom, public education, our land-based sources of jobs and wealth, and the desire to keep politics local and individual freedom strong. As an avid outdoorswoman, I understand why public lands are so special to most Idahoans.
I will focus on tackling the state’s housing affordability crisis. I will undo the disastrous tax policy, such as the $450 million dollar gift to the wealthy few. I will stop the unwanted, unneeded and unpopular $50 million school voucher program. I will build new public schools, which will take pressure off of local taxpayers, ending the cycle of trying to run schools by levy elections. I will focus on building infrastructure and I will work to help rural hospitals thrive. I will vigorously oppose state, and federal, overreach into our lives. I will confront the bullying legislation that attacks teachers, LGBTQ+ people, librarians, and others. I will stop this generation from selling off, or otherwise degrading our public lands.
Idaho has become a magnet for people fleeing urban areas. It's a major driver in our state’s housing affordability and availability crisis. This issue will directly impact the lives of most people who work for wages. Growth must be sustainable.

Idaho also suffers from the cultural upheaval that comes with great population change. The most troubling is a radical strain of Christian nationalism that seeks to degrade the public school system, ban books, silence librarians, take away our bodily autonomy, militarize our police force, welcome masked federal agents, target and bully LGBTQ+ people, and force state preference to their religious beliefs. I would be a governor who believes in separation of church and state.
It’s no secret that many Idahoans voted for our current governor because they thought he would stand in the way of his party’s worst ideas. He has done just the opposite. If Idaho is serious about having a state that serves its people–as opposed to a state that takes our freedom–I am the only candidate in the race that will help build our economy without giving up our liberty.
Campaign Statement I’m not here to reinvent the government or add new layers of bureaucracy. I’m here to enforce the rules Idaho already has, use the tools that already exist, and tighten up the weak spots so taxpayer money actually works for the people instead of getting wasted. We’re not reinventing the wheel, we're just putting the tires back on the car. Transparency starts here with a detailed “repair manual.” First, we stop the leaks. Then, we redirect the saved money to people and priorities. Next, we open the throttle for growth. Finally, we deliver results on big problems.
Campaign Website http://IdahoansFirst.com
YouTube Video
X (formerly known as Twitter) @IdahoansFirst
Campaign Phone 208-731-0472
Campaign Email admin@idahoansfirst.com
Mailing Address PO Box 13
Kimberly, ID 83341
Phone 208-731-0472
Office Sought Governor in the Republican Primary
I have spent my time over the years working hard every day, coaching youth sports, serving my community as a firefighter and by being the reliable friend and neighbor that everyone knows they can ask to help fix equipment, haul a load, or remove a tree. I have spent my life fixing what’s broken, getting done what needs to be done.
Our government is a machine. Our constitution is the owner’s manual. Our government is broken. We needed a repair manual. That's why I created The Plan. An in-depth detailed manual for repairing our government. The Plan can be found on my website at idahoansfirst.com

4 pillars make up the core of every single one of my policies, Audits, Transparency, Citizen Task Forces, and Accountability. With this structure, we will achieve the ultimate goal of a limited, efficient government that protects our rights and freedoms, keeps taxes low, and serves Idahoans not itself.
We have so many problems that cannot be solved with one person alone. If I get elected as your governor, it is my full intent to open the door for regular citizens that want to get to the bottom of everything wrong in our state. Attacking this behemoth from the top down and the ground up is the only way we are going to fix anything. I am offering Idahoans the opportunity to take back control of our government, together. By the People For the People has been a fantasy for far too long. With your help we will make it our reality.
Have you ever noticed how candidates offer us all the right talking points but never quite get around to sharing the details? The primary reason you should vote for me is because what I offer you is the answer to the most basic question. “How?”

This is what makes me different from any other candidate appearing on the ballot.
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Campaign Statement ID
Campaign Phone 2088031237
Campaign Email msuerobinson@hotmail.com
Phone 208-803-1237
Office Sought Governor of Idaho
I bring decades of leadership experience in business, manufacturing, and telecommunications. As a small business owner, I managed employees, budgets, and daily operations, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges facing Idaho workers and employers. My work in manufacturing and telecom required accountability, efficiency, and large-scale problem solving. I have also been active in community and public policy efforts, giving me a clear understanding of how government decisions impact everyday lives. This combination of private-sector leadership and civic engagement prepares me to serve Idaho with practical, results-driven leadership.
If elected, I will focus on keeping Idaho affordable, economically strong, and grounded in personal freedom. My priorities include addressing rising housing costs, supporting job creation, strengthening infrastructure, and maintaining responsible government spending. I will work to protect Idaho’s natural resources and agricultural economy while encouraging sustainable growth. I also believe transparency and accountability in government are essential. My goal is to ensure that state government works efficiently, lives within its means, and delivers real results that improve the daily lives of Idaho families.
Idaho faces significant challenges from rapid growth, rising costs, and increasing pressure on infrastructure. Housing affordability is a major concern, as many families struggle to keep up with higher prices. Water management and agricultural stability are also critical, particularly in rural communities that depend on these resources. In addition, access to healthcare remains limited in many areas. As Governor, I would focus on practical, fiscally responsible solutions that support economic stability, protect key industries, and ensure that growth does not outpace the needs of Idaho communities.
I am committed to serving all Idahoans with fairness, accountability, and common sense. My approach is focused on solutions, not political division. I believe in listening to local communities, respecting individual freedoms, and ensuring that government operates efficiently and responsibly. Idaho’s strength comes from its people, small businesses, and strong communities. I will work to protect those values while preparing our state for the future. My goal is to provide steady, practical leadership that Idahoans can trust.
Campaign Statement My goal, if elected, is to drastically reduce the size of the Idaho state government and shift regulatory and taxing authority to counties, thereby putting our lives in our communities and our citizens rather than the politicians and lobbyists in Boise.
Campaign Website http://PaulSand.org
X (formerly known as Twitter) @@Ampersand48
Campaign Email clear_sky@att.net
Office Sought White
I served 10 years on my local city council. I understand working with federal, state, county, agencies and school districts. I have 60 years of experience developing computer systems and computer businesses. I fully understand the difficulty of raising startup capital. In my spare time, I built 3 homes for my family with my own hands. I am experienced in all home construction trades.
My proposal is to create autonomous federations of counties that share a common social and economic demographic. These virtual mini-states would have their own rules, regulations, social services, taxes, and budgets. Your local elected representatives share your social and economic community. They go to the same stores, churches, and schools. This is true democracy. This is key to ending the polarization that is crippling our country and could be a model for every U.S. state that has blue cities and red rural counties.
Limiting Growth. I am opposed to any state policies that are intended to attract more people and more businesses to move to Idaho. Let's just lift up the people and businesses that are already here. The state wants to eliminate our local governments by eliminating property taxes, so they can decide how you live and what you can do with your land. They would like to build data centers, solar farms, and "affordable" housing everywhere. This is also an outright gift to big land owners.
I am not accepting any money from individuals or businesses. I have no money of my own to spend, so I will be relying on Voter's Guides like this, free press, and word of mouth.
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Campaign Statement Your freedom is my number one priority.
Campaign Phone 2088122697
Campaign Email chanelle.torrez74@gmail.com
Phone 2088122697
Office Sought Latino
To follow your dreams and fight from the heart
To give Idaho the freedom they deserve
Everything
If I don’t win this year, I’ll come back years from now stronger and more prepared