Sen. Jim Risch Wins Idaho GOP Senate Primary For Potential Fourth Term
Sen. Jim Risch won Idaho's Republican U.S. Senate primary on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, clearing the way for a bid for a fourth term and an expected fall general election fight.[1] The Trump-backed incumbent cruised to victory in the GOP contest.[1]
Risch, 83, is seeking a fourth Senate term and chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Democrat David Roth won his party's nomination, and former state Rep. Todd Achilles is running as an independent in the general election.
Idaho has not elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate in more than 50 years, underscoring the state's strong Republican lean. Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate majority, so Risch's re-election would help the GOP defend that margin.
Risch will now head into the general election against Democrat David Roth and independent Todd Achilles.
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📌 Key Facts
- On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Sen. Jim Risch won Idaho's Republican U.S. Senate primary, according to the Associated Press.
- Risch, age 83, is seeking a fourth Senate term and currently chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
- Democrat David Roth won his party's nomination, and former state Rep. Todd Achilles is running as an independent.
- Idaho has not elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate in more than 50 years, and Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate majority.
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