Author: KIFI

News Team

Election Note: All results remain unofficial until they are formally certified by the State Board of Canvassers.

IDAHO (KIFI) — Polls are officially closed for the May 2026 Primary Election, and the numbers are now rolling in.

AP: Brad Little, Terri Pickens Win Idaho Gubernatorial Primaries

The Associated Press has called the nominations for Idaho Governor. According to unofficial results, incumbent Governor Brad Little has secured the Republican Primary.

Governor Little will face Democratic candidate Terri Pickens in the general election this November. The Associated Press projected Pickens as the definitive winner of the Democratic primary early Tuesday evening. As of 10:15 p.m. MT, Pickens maintained a comfortable lead over her primary field with 64.89% of the votes counted.

AP: Jim Risch wins Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Idaho

The Associated Press has called the nominations for U.S. Senate, as of 9:34 p.m. According to unofficial results, incumbent Jim Risch has come out on top, securing the Republican Primary by 65.18% of all votes with 34/44 counties reporting.

AP: Simpson wins Republican nomination for District 2 U.S. House race

As of 10:12 p.m., the Associated Press has called the Republican Primary District 2 U.S. House race. According to unofficial results, incumbent Mike Simpson won his primary election with 62.83% of all votes, 21/26 counties reporting.

District 33A: Barbara Ehardt narrowly secures the Republican nomination

In one of the closest, contested races in Idaho Falls, incumbent Rep. Barbara Ehardt has narrowly secured the Republican nomination for Legislative District 33 Seat A by less than 200 votes, according to unofficial results.

With all 51 precincts fully reporting, Ehardt captured $51.59%$ of the vote to fend off a strong primary challenge from newcomer Connor Cook. Ehardt, who has served in the Idaho House since her initial appointment by former Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter in late 2017, is now advancing to the November general election, where she will face Democrat Chance Marshall in the race to represent Idaho Falls in Boise. Marshall ran unopposed in the Democratic primary.

Bonneville School District Voters Approve $9.6 Million Supplemental Levy

Bonneville County voters have approved a $9.6 million-per-year supplemental levy aimed at closing a mounting budget gap for Joint School District 93. According to unofficial election results, the measure passed with 58.77% voter support.

While the ballot approved a $9.6 million annual levy for the next two fiscal years (running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028), it functions as a replacement rather than an entirely new tax. The approval effectively cuts short the remaining year of the district’s previous $5.8 million annual levy, which was originally set to expire in 2027.

Rexburg Police Station Bond fails to reach supermajority for the second time

The Rexburg City General Obligation Bond has once again failed to pass, according to unofficial election results.

With all 16 precincts reporting, the bond narrowly fell short of the strict 66.67% supermajority required for approval under Idaho law. While a clear majority of participating voters—63.85%—supported the measure, it was not enough to secure the funding.

The bond was designed to fund the construction of a new city police station. According to the Rexburg Police Department, the current facility is severely outdated and plagued by numerous structural and operational issues.

This election marks the second time Rexburg voters have rejected the proposal. In 2025, a similar measure fell short of the same 66.67% threshold, garnering 62.6% approval. Ahead of this second attempt, city officials made adjustments to the project, reducing the estimated cost by approximately $3.29 million in an effort to win over voters.

City officials have not yet announced whether they will revise the proposal a third time or seek alternative funding methods for the facility.

Fuhriman defeats Young in Republican Primary Repeat

Representative Ben Fuhriman has triumphed in the high stakes remach with Julianne Young in a battle for the Republican nomination for District 30 Seat B, according to unofficial election results.

Voters turned out Tuesday, May 19, to settle the highly anticipated Republican primary, which served as a direct repeat of the 2024 race that came down to a mere four votes. This time around, District 30 voters gave Fuhriman a much wider margin of victory, securing the nomination with 53.65% of all votes with 2/2 counties reporting, as of 11:40 p.m. Tuesday.

Fuhriman now eyes the November 2026 election to secure his second term in the state legislature. He is set to face Democrat Breane Buckingham—who ran unopposed in the Democratic primary—to decide who will ultimately represent Bingham and Butte counties in Boise.

Refresh this page throughout the night for real-time results and breaking news as the ballots are finalized. For live election results, click HERE.

Caribou County Commissioner race ends in a tie

No winner in the Caribou County Commissioner race as it ends in a tie between two of the three candidates.

George Hulse and Tracy Davis earned 469 votes each in Tuesday’s election. Marty McCullough wasn’t far behind with 405 for third place.

According to Idaho Election Laws, the winner will be decided by a coin toss within two days after the canvass.

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Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Following four water rescues in just over a month, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to make boating safety a top priority this summer. In a statement Tuesday, SGT. Bryan Lovell warned that this year’s mild winter does not mean waterways are any less dangerous.

According to deputies, the recent emergencies involved vessels damaged by debris, mechanical failures, and boaters caught off guard by rapidly changing conditions. Strong runoff flowing through the Snake River and surrounding irrigation systems continues to create treacherous currents and hidden hazards beneath the surface.

“With the extremely cold temperature of the water and tendency for Idaho weather to change in an instant, a relatively calm ride on the water can very quickly turn into an emergency,” warned Lovell.

To prevent further emergencies, the Sheriff’s Office is encouraging boaters to plan ahead before heading onto the water, check local weather conditions before heading out, and ensure that everyone on board is wearing a life jacket.

For a full list and information about boating safety requirements and Idaho boating laws, click HERE.

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Kaelyn Blessinger

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Calling all families willing to open their home in Pocatello. The Idaho International Choral Festival is urgently searching for 100 host families in Pocatello this July to house international students participating in the event.

So far, only 20 families have signed up, creating a significant need for community support.

The Idaho International Choral Festival takes place every three years, bringing together various cultures through music. The festival relies on these host families to provide accommodation and an introduction to American culture for students coming from across the globe.

The goal is to connect students from around the world with local families, fostering cultural exchange as guests learn about American culture and hosts learn about other cultures.

As a host family, participants are asked to provide specific accommodations for their international guests, including:

Breakfast

Morning and Evening transportation for 2-4 international guests

Beds

Access to bathroom facilities

In return for their support, host families will receive free concert tickets. This allows them to attend performances and show support for the international guests they are hosting.

For more information or to apply to be a host family, click HERE.

Editor’s Note: This story was originally reported by a Local News 8 reporter and re-formatted for digital platforms with AI assistance. Local News 8 verifies all reporting for fairness and accuracy.”

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Seth Ratliff

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — In a massive wave of community action ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday, Idahoans have officially dominated the America250 in Idaho Service Challenge. The event organizers announced Tuesday that Idaho volunteers have cleared the 250,000-act milestone, touting a historic showing from the Idaho Falls community, which contributed nearly 100,000 acts of service alone.

The initiative, launched by the America250 in Idaho Ambassadors, challenged residents across the Gem State to give back to their communities and log their impact at IdahoKindness.com. Since January, volunteers of all ages have mobilized to launch food drives, school projects, neighborhood cleanups, and veteran support networks.

Jessica Cooper Whiting, Co-Chair of the State Service Committee, described the achievement as a “renewal of our promise to one another.”

“When we look past the numbers, we see a movement that strengthened communities across Idaho and created a legacy of service that will outlast this celebration,” said Jessica Cooper Whiting.

The massive effort to meet the goal spanned the entire state. More than 45 statewide organizations, across 166 Idaho cities, partnered in the effort.

“This was never just about reaching a number,” said Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth. “It was about bringing Idahoans together, inspiring future generations, and showing the country what’s possible when kindness becomes a movement.”

To honor the volunteers, schools, and civic organizations driving the historic effort, the America250 in Idaho Ambassadors are currently planning regional celebration events across the state to formally recognize the individuals who stepped up.

While the goal has been met, organizers emphasize that the work isn’t stopping. The America250 in Idaho “Year of Volunteerism” will continue pushing forward. For more information, or to get involved, click HERE.

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Seth Ratliff

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) — A multi-month investigation into internet crimes against children has led to serious felony charges against a Salem man.

Wyatt Widdison has been charged with eight counts of possessing child sexually exploitative material (child pornography) in a Fremont County court. According to an official release from Madison County Sheriff Ron Ball, the investigation highlights “the strong partnerships between local, state, and regional agencies working together to protect vulnerable individuals.”

The Investigation & Arrest

The case began on Dec. 15, 2025, when the Madison County Sheriff’s Office received an anonymous report regarding an adult contacting minors online.

Over the following months, Madison County detectives collaborated with local agencies, law enforcement across multiple western states, and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office to investigate.

On May 15th, a warrant was issued for Widdison’s arrest. Madison County detectives and patrol deputies located him in the Salem area and took him into custody.

On May 18, 2026, Wyatt Widdison was arraigned in Fremont County Court and was given a bond of $500,000.

Investigators believe there may be additional people with information related to this investigation who have not yet come forward. In a press release announcing the arrest, Sheriff Ball encouraged anyone with information to contact law enforcement.

“Anyone who may have had contact with the suspect, or who may have information relevant to this case, is encouraged to contact Madison County Detectives,” said Ball.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or formal charge is merely an accusation. All suspects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.

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Megan Lavin

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – A national medication shortage is affecting some women in eastern Idaho, as estrogen patches become increasingly difficult to find for those treating menopause symptoms.

Estrogen patches are part of hormone replacement therapy and are often prescribed to help manage menopause and perimenopause symptoms like joint pain, mood swings, night sweats and hot flashes.

MORE WOMEN TURNING TO HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

As menopause becomes less taboo, more women are seeking treatment, creating supply and demand problems nationwide.

Heidi Gregersen, a menopause-certified family nurse practitioner with Monarch Healthcare and one of only two menopause-certified providers in Idaho Falls, says demand has spiked.

“There’s been a huge surge — like 75 to 80% uptake in the last year — of women who are seeking treatment for hormone replacement therapy for menopause,” Gregersen said.

Gregersen says changing guidance surrounding hormone therapy may also be making women more open to treatment. In late 2025 and early 2026, the FDA began removing or revising some boxed warning language tied to certain menopause hormone therapies.

Gregersen says hormone therapy is not only about easing uncomfortable symptoms.

“This is not just about keeping women comfortable from a hot flash,” Gregersen said. “This is also about preventing her risk for hip fracture maybe 20 years down the line, reducing [her] risk for cardiovascular disease.”

She says estrogen therapy may also help improve cholesterol profiles, bone density and metabolic health for some patients.

The recent shortage has Gregersen worried some women may simply go without treatment — much like generations before them who often suffered through menopause silently.

“My mom’s generation, nobody talked about this,” Gregersen said.

“I worry that I’m not hearing from some people who aren’t able to get their patch,” she added.

OTHER OPTIONS

Gregersen says women should not abruptly stop treatment without first talking with a medical provider.

She says there are often temporary alternatives available, including:

Using two lower-dose patches instead of one higher-dose patch

Switching from twice-weekly patches to once-weekly versions

Using estrogen gels or creams

Temporarily switching to oral estrogen, if medically appropriate

MORE ATTENTION IS NEEDED

Gregersen says menopause care still has a long way to go.

“If men went through menopause, this problem would have been solved a long time ago,” Gregersen said.

She says many providers — even those specializing in women’s health — receive limited menopause-specific training, despite menopause affecting every woman and symptoms sometimes lasting for years.

“Perimenopause can last eight years,” she said. “That’s a long time to suffer with symptoms.”

WARNING ABOUT ONLINE WELLNESS TRENDS

Gregersen also warned women to be cautious about expensive online wellness treatments and social media hormone trends that may not be FDA-approved or medically necessary.

“I don’t think you need all…these ads,” Gregersen said. “We can get you really safe, FDA-approved, effective treatment available from your pharmacy.”

Gregersen encourages women experiencing menopause symptoms to talk with a trusted healthcare provider about whether hormone therapy may be appropriate for them.

“It’s not for everybody,” Gregersen said. “But it’s right for a lot of people.”

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Danielle Mullenix

Idaho Falls, ID (KIFI) – It is officially Primary Election Day in Idaho, and voters have a few things to keep in mind as they head to the poll booths today.

This election includes several races voters across eastern Idaho have been closely watching: from local county leadership positions to legislative races that could impact issues like education funding, growth, infrastructure, and property taxes.

Election officials are reminding voters to double-check their polling location before heading out, bring an approved form of ID, and remember that Idaho is a closed primary state — meaning voters must be registered with a political party to vote in that party’s primary. In Bonnville County, some polling locations have been moved. For the list, see below:

PREVIOUS LOCATION…………………….NEW LOCATION

Dora Erickson Elementary Elks Lodge (640 East Elva Street)

Hampton Inn Lookout Credit Union (East Sunnyside Road)

4-H Education Complex, Taylorview Middle School, and Sunnyside Elementary School also have updated locations for today’s election.

If an absentee ballot is still at home, officials advise against mailing it today. Instead, it should be hand-delivered directly to the county elections office before the deadline tonight.

Just a reminder: Since 2011, a law has been in place allowing voters to vote only in the primary of the party they are registered with. However, if a party tells the Secretary of State in writing that they can permit other voters, such as unaffiliated voters or those registered with different parties, to join their primary election. 

“Primary elections matter,” said Secretary of State Phil McGrane. “The races on the ballot range from Idaho’s Congressional seats and state legislative races down to the hyperlocal precinct committeemen who represent your neighborhood. In Idaho, we make it easy to register, vote, and preview your own ballot before Election Day. I encourage every eligible voter to make a plan and vote.”

Polls remain open until 8 p.m. tonight, and as long as voters are in line by that deadline, they’ll still be allowed to cast their ballot.

Local News 8 will bring the latest updates to the 2026 primary elections, both online and on all shows. To view election results, click here.

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David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – For the second election in a row, Kelly Golden is facing incumbent Stephanie Mickelsen in the contest for Legislative District 32 Seat A.

Polls open Tuesday from 8 A.M. to 8 P.M. across Eastern Idaho.

The two identified their top issues in the race.

Stephanie Mickelsen: “My top three issues would be one – affordability, two is education, and three is probably public safety or water.”

Kelly Golden: “To me, the top three major issues have been an economy that works for Idaho, immigration, and school choice – so educational freedom for parents.”

They also and shared their priorities on funding for education.

Stephanie Mickelsen: “I think we have to look at the funding formula for schools. Right now, we have a differential because they’re paying online, private charter schools the same amount as they’re paying our bricks-and-mortar schools. When bricks-and-mortar schools are having to pay for things like janitors and lunch ladies, and online schools don’t have those same things, we need to have that reflected in the funding formula. We also need to make sure that we restore some of the funding to the colleges. The colleges like [College of] Eastern Idaho, for example, because we’re creating huge backlogs.”

Kelly Golden: “I’m for school choice and educational freedom. I’m a strong backer of House Bill 93. I believe that parents are the best suited to make those educational decisions for their kids. That and it’s hard because to say I’m pro-school choice doesn’t mean that I’m anti-teacher. I think there’s some amazing teachers in all of our school districts, and they are doing everything they can with the resources that they’re given.”

Watch our in-depth interviews below for their contrasting views on illegal immigration enforcement, Medicaid expansion and more.

Stephanie Mickelsen election interview.

Kelly Golden election interview.

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Stephanie Lucas

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) – Governor Brad Little’s office says more dangerous illegal alien criminals have been transported out of the country under his Operation No Return, bringing the total number of criminals removed to nearly 100.

“Through Operation No Return, we are making it clear that dangerous criminal illegal aliens who threaten the safety of our communities will not be released back onto Idaho streets. Idaho is tough on crime, and we put the safety of Idaho families first,” Governor Little said.

According to the Governor’s Office press release, Operation No Return operates under the Idaho State Police to take “dangerous, illegal alien criminals out of county jails after the completion of their sentences instead of being released back into Idaho communities. The transports are the first step necessary to remove them from the State of Idaho.”

Mugshots of criminals that have been removed can be found at https://gov.idaho.gov/operation-no-return.

Governor Little’s office, under the Idaho State Police, Operation No Return takes “dangerous, illegal alien criminals out of county jails after the completion of their sentences instead of being released back into Idaho communities. The transports are the first step necessary to remove them from the State of Idaho.”

The transports are part of the state’s agreement with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) under the 287(g) program.

All of them were in the United States illegally and will be deported to their country of origin rather than being released back into Idaho communities after completing their sentences.

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Kaelyn Blessinger

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – It wasn’t a bird, a plane, or even Superman soaring above students at American Heritage Charter School today. It was a Black Hawk military helicopter touching down as part of the school’s America 250 Birthday Celebration.

Military and first responder vehicles, the helicopter, and the people who run them came together to honor Idaho’s military members and first responders, while introducing students to potential careers in public service.

“Today’s event is to help our students to be able to come into contact with the men and women they learn about here at school,” Superintendent Tiffnee Hurst said. “And to be able to see them and talk to them and to find out what it is to serve their country and their community.”

Students toured the service vehicles, including the attack helicopter, to further enhance their understanding of first responders and military careers.

“Our whole mission at the school is for our children to understand what it is to be free and our Constitution and our founding documents and our founding fathers,” Business Manager Angela Lords said. “Also, our servicemen and women who serve to keep us safe, in our community and in other countries. So it takes a lot of us.”

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