Terri Pickens

Where Pickens stands

Governors have many responsibilities, which vary from state to state. Which of those do you personally consider the most important in your state?

In Idaho, I believe the governor’s most important responsibility is to protect and strengthen the everyday lives of Idahoans—especially by defending our public education system, managing our natural resources wisely, and ensuring government remains accountable to the people. Idaho’s governor must lead with fiscal responsibility while investing in the future—our schools, infrastructure, and workforce. Safeguarding our clean water, public lands, and rural communities is essential to preserving our way of life.

Small businesses must be able to compete to succeed

Fair treatment of employees and paying a living wage is critical

Workers’ Rights

Idaho’s economy depends on working people. Teachers, nurses, firefighters, public employees, tradespeople, and service workers are the backbone of our communities and our economy

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I stand for a government that works for everyday Idahoans—not billionaires or political insiders. My priorities are lowering costs for working families, protecting public education, and defending our freedoms from government overreach. I believe in creating good-paying jobs through investment in infrastructure, clean energy, and small businesses, not corporate tax breaks. Health care should be affordable and accessible to all, and our veterans, seniors, and rural communities deserve respect and resources. I’ll fight to protect Idaho’s public lands, clean water, and way of life.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Idaho faces several pressing challenges over the next decade that will shape the state’s future. One of the most urgent is the erosion of fundamental freedoms, including threats to reproductive rights, privacy, and access to unbiased education. Policies driven by ideological agendas—such as the rise of Christian nationalism—risk undermining the separation of church and state, marginalizing diverse communities, and restricting the freedoms that have long defined Idaho’s character. Economic inequality and the affordability of housing and healthcare also loom large.

What role should your state’s government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?

I believe Idaho’s government should play a proactive but balanced role in the development and use of artificial intelligence. Its primary responsibility is to protect citizens—especially children—from harmful or exploitative AI applications, while safeguarding privacy and upholding fundamental rights. This means setting clear regulations for AI in schools, online platforms, and consumer products to ensure that personal data isn’t misused, and that children aren’t exposed to manipulative or unsafe content.

What legislation would you want to sign related to election administration in your state?

As Governor of Idaho, I would prioritize legislation that enhances election accessibility, transparency, and security, ensuring that every eligible Idahoan can vote freely and confidently.