Why It Matters
A rematch between two Ada County Republicans could shape education policy debates in the Idaho Legislature. The race has drawn heavy spending from national school choice groups targeting the challenger.
District 23 covers portions of rural Owyhee, Ada and Canyon counties. The May 19 Republican primary will determine who represents the area in the Idaho House.
What Happened
Rep. Chris Bruce, R-Kuna, will face Melissa Durrant again in the District 23 House Seat A primary. Bruce defeated Durrant by 83 votes in 2024.
Bruce serves on the state’s budget-writing committee in his first term. He previously served on the Kuna City Council starting in 2021.
Durrant represented the district as a freshman legislator before her narrow 2024 loss. She decided to run again after constituents asked her to seek the seat.
By the Numbers
Out-of-state school choice groups have spent heavily to influence the race. The Idaho Federation for Children PAC spent $80,655 opposing Durrant in 2024. The affiliated AFC Victory Fund has spent $38,318 opposing her this cycle.
Bruce ran an efficient 2024 primary campaign, spending just $2,731 with no PAC involvement. Durrant’s campaign spent $38,331 in 2024. Outside groups spent $23,978 supporting her and $97,797 opposing her, bringing total spending to $160,106.
Zoom Out
National school choice organizations have increased spending in Idaho legislative races. The Idaho Federation for Children PAC receives funding from donors outside the state.
Bruce said he opposes outside money in Idaho races regardless of who benefits. Durrant said her family was affected by the volume of attack mailers in 2024.
What’s Next
The Republican primary election takes place May 19. The winner will likely represent the district in the Idaho House, as District 23 leans heavily Republican.
Bruce said education policy should accommodate families who choose alternatives to traditional public schools. Durrant has not detailed her current education policy positions in available statements.
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