Why It Matters
With one week remaining before Idaho’s May 19 primary election, campaign finance reports reveal the massive fundraising advantage held by incumbent officials. Governor Brad Little’s war chest exceeds the combined total of all seven Republican challengers and every candidate from other parties seeking the state’s top office.
The fundraising disparity signals the uphill battle facing challengers in a crowded gubernatorial field that includes 17 candidates across five parties.
What Happened
Little reported raising $1.8 million for his re-election campaign in 2026, according to Idaho Sunshine, the state’s official campaign finance database. The figure represents more money than all other gubernatorial candidates combined have raised this cycle.
Among challengers, retired Idaho Supreme Court Justice John Stegner leads with $264,252 raised. Stegner is running as an independent candidate. Republican businessman Mark Fitzpatrick reported raising $184,752, roughly one-tenth of Little’s total. Democratic attorney Terri Pickens brought in $112,759.
Seven Republicans are challenging Little in the GOP primary. The race also includes four Democrats, two Libertarians, two independents, and one Constitution Party candidate.
By The Numbers
Governor Brad Little: $1,842,516 raised in 2026
Attorney General Raúl Labrador: $552,742 raised, second-highest statewide
Secretary of State Phil McGrane: $356,371 raised
Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke: $274,596 raised
John Stegner (independent gubernatorial candidate): $264,252 raised, highest among challengers
Zoom Out
Five incumbent Republican officials running for re-election joined Little on the top 10 list of statewide fundraisers. Labrador, McGrane, Bedke, State Controller Brandon Woolf, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield all reported six-figure fundraising totals.
None of these incumbents face primary opponents. Democratic attorney general candidate Lori Hickman also made the top 10 with $62,153 raised.
All statewide constitutional offices and all 105 Idaho Legislature seats are on the ballot in 2026, though not all races feature contested primaries. The fundraising advantage held by Republican incumbents reflects the party’s dominance in Idaho elections and the difficulty challengers face in building competitive campaigns.
What’s Next
Idaho voters head to the polls May 19 for party primary elections. Winners will advance to the November 3 general election alongside independent candidates.
With Little’s overwhelming fundraising lead, the Republican primary appears unlikely to threaten his path to the general election. The governor’s financial advantage will fund advertising, staff, and voter outreach in the final week before primary day.
About the Author
