The Republican Incumbent: Jim Risch
Seeking a fourth term, Jim Risch is a fixture in Idaho politics, having served as governor and lieutenant governor before his election to the Senate in 2008. Risch won the Republican primary on May 19, 2026, solidifying his position as the GOP nominee. His campaign emphasizes his conservative track record on fiscal policy, his focus on reducing government spending, and cutting regulations. Risch, who serves as a high-ranking member on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, aligns himself with an "America First" agenda and has secured endorsements from prominent national and local Republican figures. His platform focuses on supporting farmers and ranchers, cutting taxes, and bolstering law enforcement, arguing his experience is vital for Idaho's
interests in the nation's capital.
The Independent Challenger: Todd Achilles
Positioning himself as an alternative to the two-party system, Todd Achilles is running as an independent. A former Democratic state representative, Achilles is campaigning with the support of some Democratic leaders, which came after the party's primary winner, David Roth, withdrew from the race. This strategic shift could make the general election more competitive. Achilles frames his candidacy as a response to political polarization, arguing that the major parties have failed the country. His background as a state legislator suggests a focus on Idaho-specific issues, likely aiming to build a broad coalition of moderate Republicans, independents, and Democrats who feel unrepresented by the current political climate.
The Democratic Nominee Who Withdrew: David Roth
David Roth won the Democratic primary on May 19, defeating two other candidates. Roth, a realtor who was also the nominee in 2022, was briefly the party's standard-bearer for the 2026 Senate race. However, in a significant development, Roth withdrew from the campaign in July. His withdrawal followed the entry of independent candidate Todd Achilles, who garnered support from key Democratic figures. This move has reshaped the race, clearing the path for a more direct contest between the incumbent Risch and the independent Achilles.
Other Candidates on the Ballot
Beyond the main contenders, Idaho voters will see other names on their ballots. Matt Loesby secured the nomination for the Libertarian Party, offering a platform centered on minimal government and individual liberty. Natalie Fleming is also running as an independent candidate. While third-party and independent candidates traditionally face an uphill battle in statewide races, their presence speaks to the diverse political ideologies within Idaho and offers voters alternatives outside of the mainstream Republican and Democratic platforms.
