Idaho Republican Gov. Brad Little announces run for third term
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Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman
BOISE (Idaho Statesman) — Republican Idaho Gov. Brad Little on Tuesday announced his decision to run for a third term.
“We’ve made Idaho the most prosperous state in the nation while fiercely defending our enduring core values — faith, family, and freedom,” he said in a Tuesday news release. “And we’re not slowing down — Idaho will continue leading the nation in cutting red tape and expanding freedom.”
So far this election cycle, Little has received about $1.5 million in campaign contributions and spent nearly $300,000.
He “continues to demonstrate unmatched, statewide support and sustained momentum across Idaho,” the release said.
If he wins, he’d be the fourth governor in the state’s history to serve three terms — and only the third to do so consecutively.
In June, President Donald Trump endorsed Little, 72, for another term.
“Brad Little is the strong and highly popular Governor of Idaho,” Trump posted on Truth Social, the president’s social media platform. “Brad Little has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election — HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!”
On Tuesday, Little celebrated Trump’s support.
“I am continually humbled by the support we receive for our vision and campaign,” he said in the release. “I am especially grateful for the endorsement of President Donald Trump, and I appreciate his support for the commonsense values we are advancing here in Idaho.”
Little’s campaign will “formally kick off” after the legislative session ends, according to the release — though he has a campaign website and phone line. On Friday, a plane towing a banner that read “Little for Idaho” circled over Boise.
Little will appear on the ballot in the May 19 Republican primary. Republican Mark Fitzpatrick, independent John Stegner and Democrat Terri Pickens have also announced their candidacy for governor.