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Star Today
By the People, for the People
Idaho Sees Influx of New Residents Fleeing West Coast States
Governor Brad Little addresses growth challenges and opportunities for the Gem State
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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Idaho's population has been rapidly growing in recent years, with many new residents fleeing states like California, Oregon, and Washington. Governor Brad Little discussed the state's growth challenges and opportunities, including signing a non-disclosure agreement with a company that will bring around 1,000 new jobs to Idaho. The governor also addressed concerns about the political culture shifting as more progressive-minded people move in, saying that most new Idaho voters were previously registered as Republicans in their home states.
Why it matters
Idaho's rapid population growth is reshaping the state, presenting both challenges and opportunities. The influx of new residents from more liberal states raises questions about how it may impact Idaho's political landscape and culture, which has traditionally been more conservative. However, the growth also brings economic benefits, including new jobs and tax revenue.
The details
Idaho's population has been booming, with the city of Star seeing its population double in recent years due to an influx of residents from states like California, Oregon, and Washington. Governor Brad Little addressed the state's growth challenges, noting that he has signed a non-disclosure agreement with a company that will be bringing around 1,000 new jobs to Idaho. The governor also discussed how Idaho's low regulation and tax relief policies are attracting businesses and residents, in contrast to more progressive policies in neighboring states like Washington.
- In recent years, Idaho has seen a surge in population growth.
- Governor Brad Little addressed the state's growth challenges and opportunities in a recent appearance on Newsmax.
The players
Brad Little
The governor of Idaho who has become a popular guest on Fox Business, Fox News Channel, and Newsmax to discuss the state's rapid growth and economic development.
Gavin Newsom
The governor of California, who unlike Governor Little, is not running for president.
What they’re saying
“The fact that we're the least regulated state and that we've done more with tax relief per capita than any other state. They're pushing so much capital out of those states.”
— Brad Little, Governor of Idaho (Newsmax)
“Most of the people who come to register to vote in Idaho were registered in California, Oregon, or Washington as a Republican.”
— Brad Little, Governor of Idaho (Newsmax)
What’s next
Idaho is expected to gain an additional Congressional seat due to its rapid population growth, increasing the state's Congressional representation by 50%.
The takeaway
Idaho's growth challenges and opportunities highlight the broader trends of population shifts and political realignment happening across the country, as people seek out more business-friendly and conservative-leaning states to call home.
