Boise Attorney Terri Pickens Files to Run for Idaho Governor

Pickens criticizes current governor's policies on taxes, public safety, and education

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Terri Pickens, a Boise attorney and small business owner, has filed to run for governor of Idaho. In her campaign announcement, Pickens sharply criticized current Idaho Gov. Brad Little over his handling of state finances, public safety, and education policy, accusing him of prioritizing tax cuts that benefit the wealthy and out-of-state interests over the needs of working families.

Why it matters

Pickens' entry into the Idaho gubernatorial race sets up a potential high-profile challenge to the incumbent Republican governor, with the candidates likely to clash over key issues like taxation, public spending, and social policies. The outcome could have significant implications for the direction of the state's politics and policies.

The details

In her announcement, Pickens argued that Gov. Little's budget decisions have contributed to challenges in areas such as mental health care access, wildfire preparedness, and higher education funding. She also criticized a recently approved $50 million program supporting private and religious schools, saying public funds should remain focused on public education. Additionally, Pickens referenced a recent federal law enforcement action in Wilder, alleging it represented government overreach, and said she would work to protect individual freedoms and reduce living expenses for working families if elected.

  • Terri Pickens filed to run for Idaho governor on Monday, February 24, 2026.
  • The Idaho primary election is scheduled for May 2026, with the general election to follow in November.

The players

Terri Pickens

A Boise attorney and small business owner who has filed to run for governor of Idaho. Pickens is a fourth-generation Idahoan who graduated from high school in Pocatello and later earned a law degree from the University of Idaho. She founded a law firm in Boise and volunteers as a legal advocate for abused children.

Brad Little

The current Republican governor of Idaho, first elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. Little has defended his administration's fiscal policies, including tax reductions and education funding changes, as strengthening Idaho's economy and providing relief to residents.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.