Chanelle Torrez is running against Terri Pickens (D primary), Stephen Heidt (D primary); General: Justin Plante (R), Melissa Sue Robinson (L), Ammon Bundy (I), Maxine Durand (I).
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Idaho is rated Solid Republican/Safe Republican. Democrats have not won an Idaho gubernatorial race since Cecil Andrus in 1990. Incumbent Brad Little (R) can run for a third term.
Key dates to watch: Primary on May 19, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.
Chanelle Torrez is a native of Caldwell, Idaho running for Governor in the 2026 Democratic primary. A second-generation descendant of an immigrant, she grew up in difficult circumstances including an abusive household with substance abuse. Despite losing her father, whom she describes as her best friend and having no role model growing up, Torrez has become a passionate advocate for women's rights and social justice. Now in her early 30s and residing in Nampa, Idaho, she is competing in the May 2026 Democratic primary alongside Terri Pickens and Stephen Heidt.
Second-generation descendant of an immigrant. Born and raised in Caldwell, Idaho in Canyon County, which has a high Latino population. Experienced difficult childhood circumstances including an abusive home environment with substance abuse issues. Lost her father, whom she describes as "my best friend," and states she "didn't have a role model growing up."
Retail experience including position at Dollar Tree
High School Diploma; Caldwell Senior High School