Boise-area senator won't seek reelection, endorses replacement

Ali Rabe, who represents Garden City and part of Boise, says she will not run again in 2026.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 7:39pm

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Idaho state Sen. Ali Rabe, who represents Garden City and part of Boise, announced that she will not seek reelection in 2026. Rabe, a Democrat first elected in 2020, cited her work in the housing sector and the responsibility of raising two children as reasons for stepping back from politics. She said she will endorse District 16 Rep. Soñia Galaviz to fill her Senate seat.

Why it matters

Rabe's decision not to run for reelection creates an open Senate seat in a key Boise-area district. Her endorsement of Galaviz as her replacement could influence the race to succeed her.

The details

Rabe was first elected to the Idaho Senate in 2020, originally in Legislative District 17. She relocated and was elected in District 16 in 2022. As state senator, Rabe worked on bills addressing housing, affordability, public education support and access to public lands. She said she will continue to 'mentor new voices who step up to serve' even as she steps away from elected office.

  • Rabe was first elected to the Idaho Senate in 2020.
  • Rabe was elected in District 16 in 2022.
  • Rabe announced she will not seek reelection in 2026.

The players

Ali Rabe

An Idaho state senator who represents Garden City and part of Boise. Rabe, a Democrat, announced she will not seek reelection in 2026.

Soñia Galaviz

A District 16 representative in the Idaho House of Representatives. Rabe has endorsed Galaviz to fill her Senate seat.

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What they’re saying

“I look forward to finishing my term and will always be committed to public service, but I've reached a season of life where how I serve needs to change for now. With a growing body of work in housing and two young boys, I need to work more behind the scenes rather than in elected office.”

— Ali Rabe, Idaho state senator

“I've stood up for public education, fair tax policy, and affordable child and health care, and I've worked alongside colleagues from both sides of the aisle to pass good legislation. That work takes persistence, collaboration, and trust, and I'm proud of what we've accomplished.”

— Ali Rabe, Idaho state senator

What’s next

Rabe's endorsement of Soñia Galaviz to fill her Senate seat could influence the race to succeed her.

The takeaway

Rabe's decision not to run for reelection creates an open Senate seat in a key Boise-area district, highlighting the importance of mentoring new voices in public service as experienced lawmakers step aside.