Idaho Governor Brad Little has officially announced his bid for a third term, setting the stage for a closely watched election in the state. The Republican governor, first elected in early 2019, is seeking to extend his leadership beyond his current second term.
The announcement came with a notable endorsement from former President Donald Trump, a significant factor in Idaho’s Republican landscape. Little publicly shared his intention to run on social media, highlighting the former president’s support as a key element of his campaign.
Formal paperwork, a “Declaration of Candidacy,” was filed with the Idaho Secretary of State on Tuesday, solidifying Little’s entry into the race. This move signals a determined effort to continue guiding the state’s direction.
Trump’s backing of Little evolved over time, initially favoring then-Lieutenant Governor Janice McGeachin in 2021. However, despite that earlier support for a challenger, Trump ultimately voiced strong and repeated endorsements for Little throughout 2023 and into the current year.
The former president’s statements, shared on his social media platform, were unequivocal: “Brad Little has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election – HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!” This strong language underscores the perceived importance of Little’s leadership to Trump’s political interests.
Little’s successful navigation of the 2022 Republican primary, despite Trump’s previous endorsement of McGeachin, demonstrates his own political strength within Idaho. He overcame a challenge from within his own party to secure his current position.
The upcoming election promises a compelling contest, with Little leveraging Trump’s support and his own established record as he seeks to secure another four years as Idaho’s governor. The race will likely focus on key issues facing the state and the direction of its future.
