Idaho Governor Candidate Q&A: May Primary Election

Idaho News 6 invited candidates in the state's gubernatorial race to complete a written questionnaire ahead of the May primary election. Democratic candidates Maxine Durand and Terri Pickens responded. Maxine Durand has 12 years of experience in government and public service, including Idaho Medicaid and local government. She cites the economy as the most significant issue facing Idahoans, and her platform includes an Idaho-based 'Medicare for All' program, universal childcare, and raising the minimum wage. Terri Pickens, a fourth-generation Idahoan, criticizes the current governor and Legislature for taking away freedoms and damaging the state's ability to provide services. She highlights issues such as government-sanctioned book banning, state-mandated religious rites in schools, and laws targeting the LGBTQ+ community.