Idaho’s 2026 Senate Race Features Incumbent Risch Seeking Re-Election Amid Age Concerns
Idaho voters will elect a U.S. senator on November 3, 2026, in a contest for the Class II seat currently held by Republican Jim Risch. Risch, who has served since January 3, 2009, announced his re-election bid in a news release emphasizing continued collaboration with President Donald Trump on reducing government spending and cutting regulations. Trump endorsed Risch on March 20, 2025, praising his work on economic growth, border security, and energy policy. At 82 years old, Risch would be 89 at the end of a potential fourth term, prompting discussions about his longevity in office.
The race is rated solidly Republican, reflecting Idaho’s consistent support for GOP candidates. Risch won re-election in 2020 with 62.6% of the vote. Fundraising reports as of June 30, 2025, show Risch with $1,895,369 raised, $1,204,899 spent, and $2,885,328 cash on hand. His net worth is estimated at $54.5 million, and he has received endorsements from figures including U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo, U.S. Rep. Russ Fulcher, and Gov. Brad Little.
Republican challengers include Joe Evans, though no announcement date is available. On the Democratic side, David Roth declared his candidacy on March 31, 2025, with fundraising totals of $2,287 raised, $2,927 spent, and $26 cash on hand as of June 30, 2025.Independent candidates have also entered the fray. Todd Achilles, a former Democratic state representative from Boise who served from 2024 to July 1, 2025, announced his independent bid on July 1, 2025, after switching his affiliation to unaffiliated. Achilles cited frustration with the two-party system, rising federal debt, and overseas conflicts as reasons for running outside major parties. Natalie Fleming, who ran as an independent in 2020 and as a Republican in 2022, has filed paperwork to run as an independent.
Recent developments include an August 26, 2025, opinion piece highlighting Risch’s age and career length, noting he has held public office since 1970 and suggesting his announcement might delay retirement to avoid internal Republican conflicts. The piece also referenced low approval ratings and potential for a more open race if Risch steps aside later. Idaho has not elected a non-Republican senator since Democrat Frank Church in 1974.
The primary election is scheduled for May 19, 2026, with a possible runoff on June 16, 2026. Filing deadlines are in March 2026. As the cycle progresses, the race could focus on national issues like fiscal policy and foreign relations, given Risch’s role as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.