Former state Sen. Russ Fulcher (R), who last August declared his gubernatorial candidacy, has decided to re-direct his political quest away from the statewide race and toward an open congressional campaign.  After Rep. Raul Labrador (R-Eagle/Boise) joined the highly competitive Governor’s contest to replace retiring incumbent Butch Otter (R), the open western state 1st District, Fulcher believes, gives him a better chance for victory.  There he will face former Lt. Gov. David LeRoy and ex-Idaho County Commissioner James Rockwell in the forming Republican primary.  The 1st District is a safe Republican seat. 

--Jim Ellis

Now that Rep. Raul Labrador (R-Eagle/Boise) has announced for Governor, candidates are beginning to come forward for what will be the open western Idaho 1st District.  Former Lt. Gov. David LeRoy and ex-Idaho County Commissioner James Rockwell announced their candidacies for the Republican nomination, and military veteran Michael Smith says he will run for the Democrats.  The eventual Republican nominee will be a heavy favorite to hold the seat.​

--Jim Ellis

Four-term Rep. Raul Labrador (R-Eagle/Boise) announced yesterday that he will enter his state’s open gubernatorial contest.  Mr. Labrador joins Lt. Gov. Brad Little, former state Sen. Russ Fulcher, and physician/ developer Tommy Ahlquist in the Republican field.  Rep. Labrador, a key member of the House Freedom Caucus, hopes to rally the most conservative Idaho Republican primary voter as a base to propel him to a primary victory.  The eventual GOP nominee will be the prohibitive favorite to win the general election.  Three-term Gov. Butch Otter (R) is retiring.

--Jim Ellis