Burtenshaw Elected Mayor After Tight Runoff Race
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho – Lisa Burtenshaw has been elected the next mayor of Idaho Falls after winning a runoff election held Tuesday night. Burtenshaw, a former city council member and longtime resident, secured 6,435 votes, or 53.19%, defeating her opponent Jeff Alldridge, who received 5,663 votes (46.81%).
The race went to a runoff after neither candidate crossed the 50% threshold in the November general election. Alldridge had led that round by a slim 62-vote margin.
Election Draws Strong Community Engagement
The runoff brought slightly more voters to the polls than the general election, with 12,107 ballots cast—an increase of 238 from November. Supporters from both sides campaigned vigorously in the final weeks, and the race grew increasingly competitive as election day neared.
In her victory remarks, Burtenshaw expressed gratitude for community support and emphasized her commitment to collaboration.
“Every person who participated in this campaign, by volunteering their time and casting their vote, showed a commitment to making our community better,” she said. “Now we get to work—together.”
Plans for Growth and Infrastructure
Supporters and city leaders praised Burtenshaw for her ability to build consensus and face challenges directly. City Councilman John Radford said her leadership style would be key in tackling infrastructure projects, including a proposed belt loop and improvements to high-traffic roadways.
“She doesn’t avoid hard problems,” Radford noted. “She confronts them.”
Alldridge Reflects on Campaign Effort
Despite the loss, Alldridge thanked his supporters and described the campaign as a valuable learning experience. “It’s been incredibly humbling,” he said. “Now, I’m looking forward to time with my family and staying involved in the community.”
Voter Turnout and Community Reactions
With just over 12,000 voters participating out of a population of more than 69,000, some residents expressed concern about low civic engagement despite the contentious nature of the race. Others emphasized the importance of working together following a divided campaign season.
Burtenshaw will take office in early 2026, joining newly elected councilman Brandon Lee, who also won his runoff race for Seat 2 with nearly 60% of the vote.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- Politics – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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