Idaho’s May primary election is less than 50 days away, and the state’s most recent election clearly indicated the importance of voter communication and accessibility.
In the closed-door Republican caucus in March, just 3.4% of Idaho’s registered voters actually cast a vote for the winner of the GOP’s presidential caucus. More than 33,000 people voted for Donald Trump, which despite the million registered voters in the state was enough to make him the GOP’s — and effectively the state’s — presidential nominee.
The November general election is bound to bring in more voters, but in many ways the primary is even more important. It’s where Republicans will decide whether to tack towards traditional conservatism or to follow state leaders, and it’s where Democrats will consolidate their ranks for the best chance to compete later on.
But it’s also where less flashy, “rubber meets the road” races will be determined. We’ll hone in on individual races closer to election day, but here’s a little preparation for May’s primary.
Major Deadlines
The deadline to withdraw from the primary election just passed, so your slate of candidates is set in stone.
- The primary election is Tuesday, May 21.
- You can register to vote online or update your registration status until April 26.
- In person registration is available at the polls.
What’s on the Ballot
Information about county and state elections are found on different sites. Peruse the statewide races and candidates through the Secretary of State, and the county’s through the Ada County election website. But here’s the bare bones:
- All 105 of Idaho’s state legislators are up for election in May.
- Both of Idaho’s U.S. Representatives are up for reelection. Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher are hoping to fend off six and three opponents respectively.
- At the county level, two of three commissioners are on the ballot, along with the sheriff and prosecutor.
Don’t forget your county precinct committeemen — they make up the county party’s committee, directing policy and decisions. You may not even have one on the ballot, but some precincts have more than one to choose from.
