> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://aabie.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # What Happened in the 2018 Idaho Gubernatorial Election and Why It Matters - URL: https://aabie.com/2018-idaho-gubernatorial-election/ - Published: 2026-10-18T05:21:28.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-18T05:21:28.000Z - Author: Daniel Carter - Tags: History The 2018 Idaho gubernatorial election determined who would serve as the state's governor from 2019 to 2023\. This election featured Republican Brad Little, the sitting lieutenant governor, and Democrat Paulette Jordan, a state representative and the first Native American to run for Idaho governor. Their campaigns highlighted key issues like education, healthcare, and economic growth, reflecting Idaho's political landscape and the priorities of its voters. ## Who were the main candidates in the 2018 Idaho gubernatorial election? The race was primarily between two candidates from Idaho's major parties. Brad Little, the Republican nominee, was the sitting lieutenant governor with extensive experience in Idaho politics, including time in the state senate. His background gave him a strong base among conservative voters. Paulette Jordan, the Democratic nominee, was a state representative known for progressive views and historic as the first Native American to seek Idaho's governorship. Her campaign was energized by grassroots support, which stood out in a state that traditionally leans heavily Republican. These candidates offered sharply different visions for Idaho's future, with Little representing continuity and conservative governance, and Jordan advocating for progressive change and expanded social programs. ## What were the key issues and platforms during the campaign? Education was a major focus for both candidates. Brad Little supported continued investment in schools while maintaining balanced state budgets and fostering economic growth. He appealed to business interests and conservative voters by emphasizing fiscal responsibility alongside education funding. Paulette Jordan prioritized increased funding for education, including higher teacher pay and more resources for schools, within a broader agenda supporting social services and working families. Healthcare was another important issue: Jordan pushed for Medicaid expansion to improve access for Idahoans, while Little took a more cautious stance on expanding government health programs due to cost concerns. Economic development, including support for agriculture and technology sectors, was discussed by both candidates, but their approaches differed along ideological lines — Little favored steady growth supported by conservative policies, while Jordan proposed more government involvement to address social needs. ## How did the election results turn out and what was the voter turnout? Brad Little won the 2018 gubernatorial election with about 59% of the vote, while Paulette Jordan received roughly 38%. The remaining votes went to minor party candidates and write-ins. Voter turnout was moderate, typical for a midterm election in Idaho, though exact figures vary by source. The results reinforced the state's strong Republican leanings, but Jordan's campaign managed to mobilize a significant Democratic base, making it one of the more competitive races in recent Idaho history. Voting patterns showed clear regional differences, with urban areas providing stronger support for Jordan compared to more rural parts of the state, which favored Little. ## How did the 2018 election fit into Idaho’s broader political trends? Idaho has long been a Republican stronghold, especially in statewide offices like the governorship. The 2018 election continued this pattern, with Brad Little maintaining Republican control. However, Paulette Jordan's energized campaign suggested increased Democratic engagement and a potential shift in the party’s ability to contest statewide races. Despite this, the Republican Party's established infrastructure and voter base remained dominant. Compared to prior elections, 2018 did not result in a political upset but highlighted the ongoing challenges Democrats face in Idaho's conservative environment. The election took place during national midterms marked by intense partisanship, yet Idaho's results were consistent with its usual conservative voting behavior. ## What impact did the 2018 election have on Idaho’s policies and political direction? Brad Little's win ensured the continuation of Republican leadership and policy priorities in Idaho. His administration focused on fiscal conservatism, supporting key industries such as agriculture and technology, and approached expansion of social programs cautiously. While education funding stayed on the agenda, Little’s approach emphasized stable governance over major policy shifts. Paulette Jordan’s campaign, although unsuccessful, brought attention to issues like Medicaid expansion and indigenous rights, influencing public discussion and shaping Democratic strategies in the state. Overall, the election reinforced Idaho’s conservative identity but also highlighted emerging voices advocating for broader inclusion and debate on policy matters. This set the stage for how Idaho would address political and economic challenges in the years that followed. ## What questions do people commonly have about this election? Common questions include why a Democrat like Paulette Jordan ran in a heavily Republican state and how competitive the race was. People also want to understand the main differences between the candidates’ education and healthcare policies. Others ask about voter turnout and whether the election reflected national political trends or was driven mostly by local issues. There's also interest in how this election influenced future political contests in Idaho and whether it indicated any changes in voter attitudes or party strength. ## Conclusion The 2018 Idaho gubernatorial election clearly showed the state's strong Republican leaning while also revealing growing Democratic engagement. By examining the candidates’ focus on education, healthcare, and economic growth, you get insight into Idaho’s political priorities and challenges. Whether you're studying electoral patterns or considering involvement in Idaho politics, this election offers a clear view of the state's political dynamics and some emerging shifts within its electorate. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Was the 2018 Idaho gubernatorial election close? No. Brad Little won decisively with nearly 60% of the vote, reflecting Idaho's strong Republican preference. ### Did Paulette Jordan’s campaign change Idaho politics? Although she lost, Jordan energized Democratic voters and highlighted issues like Medicaid expansion and indigenous representation, which influenced political conversations in Idaho. ### What were the main differences in the candidates’ education policies? Brad Little focused on steady funding while balancing budgets, aiming for sustainable investment. Paulette Jordan pushed for increased teacher pay and more school resources, emphasizing greater investment in public education.