(Boise, Idaho) – The 2026 election season is here. A major first step for candidates is filing to run for office. There are meaningful changes this year to simplify the process and make it more accessible.
New this year, all candidates will file online at VoteIdaho.gov. This secure system allows candidates across the state to complete their filing and submit payment electronically, all in one spot. This eliminates the previous need to travel to the Capitol in Boise to file in person.
“We are excited to kick off the election season with a streamlined process for candidates across Idaho,” said Secretary of State Phil McGrane. “We look forward to the year ahead and appreciate Idahoans’ effort to seek public service.”
There are key updates to be aware of. Statewide and Legislative candidates now have a one-week filing period, which runs from February 23 at 8:00 a.m. MST through February 27 at 5 p.m. MST. The withdrawal deadline is March 6 at 5 p.m. MST.
The Secretary of State’s election team is available in the Capitol to assist candidates.
Candidates who select to submit signatures instead of paying the filing fee will continue to submit those signatures directly to the appropriate filing office.
A second filing period for County and Local Offices, as well as Precinct Committeemen, will also be hosted at VoteIdaho.gov during the county filing period. That runs March 2 at 8:00 a.m. local time through March 13 at 5 p.m. local time. The withdrawal deadline is March 20, 2026, at 5 p.m. local time.
Local-level candidate filing information is also available at the community level with the county elections office.
For more details on the process and access to documents, such as candidate petition forms, please visit the Candidate Filing page on VoteIdaho.gov. You can also access in-depth information on our How to Run for Office webpage.
As with any changes in the election process, questions are welcomed and encouraged. Our office is ready to assist with anything candidates may need to ensure the process runs smoothly and is well understood.
FILING PERIODS AT A GLANCE:
- Federal, Statewide, & Judicial Offices: February 23-27, 2026
- County & Local/District Offices: March 2-13, 2026