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Idaho Senate District 31 Choose 1

Voter Guide

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Van T. Burtenshaw (Rep)

Biographical Information

What would you like to accomplish if elected?

Candidate has not yet responded.

What experience has prepared you for this office?

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

Candidate has not yet responded.

What else would you like to tell the voters?

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Voter Guide

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Kevin Gerrard (Dem)

Biographical Information

Campaign Statement Working Together for Stronger Communities
Campaign Phone (208)538-3659
Office Sought Idaho State Senate District 31

What would you like to accomplish if elected?

I want to focus on the issues I hear about every day. Property taxes, cost of living, housing, water, and support for schools and first responders. My goal is to bring practical, balanced solutions that reflect the realities people in our communities are facing. That means improving how we fund local services, protecting water resources, and making housing more attainable. I will prioritize transparency, local input, and policies that are realistic, responsible, and built to last.

What experience has prepared you for this office?

In my work as a REALTOR® in East Idaho, I sit down with people every day who are trying to make big financial decisions in a tough economy. I see firsthand how property taxes, housing costs, and regulations impact people’s lives, including deals that fall apart due to affordability gaps. That experience has given me a clear understanding of the challenges our communities face. I have also worked through complex issues on local boards and in my profession, where collaboration and practical outcomes matter.

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

Affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing our district. Rising property taxes, housing costs, and overall cost of living are putting pressure on families. Water management is another critical issue in Eastern Idaho, where agriculture, growth, and sustainability must be balanced. I support strengthening aquifer recharge and mitigation efforts to protect long term water access. We also need to better support schools and first responders while maintaining local control.

What else would you like to tell the voters?

I’m running to represent the people of District 31 with a practical, problem solving approach. I am a Democrat, and I am clear about that. At the same time, I do not believe party affiliation should get in the way of solving problems or working with others to get results. I will work with anyone willing to lower costs, protect local decision making, and support our communities. I will stay accessible, listen carefully, and focus on doing the job in a thoughtful and accountable way.