Who Is Running in Idaho Congressional District 1st in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Russell Fulcher
(Incumbent)Economy
HighRepresentative Russell Fulcher voted for H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, to codify President Trump's policy agenda, aiming for economic growth by extending 2017 tax cuts and eliminating taxes on tips and overtime. He also supported a $900 billion COVID relief package in December 2020 but opposed the $1.9 trillion ARPA bill in March 2021, emphasizing the importance of balanced budgets.
Immigration
HighRussell Fulcher supports immigration reform and prioritizes border security as a constitutional responsibility of Congress to protect national sovereignty. He voted in favor of the Homeland Security Appropriations Act, which allocates resources to enhance immigration enforcement and homeland defense capabilities. He has also highlighted a "secure border" as an accomplishment.
Healthcare
HighCongressman Russell Fulcher voted against extending enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits, citing that government mandates and the ACA itself have led to skyrocketing health insurance premiums and unsustainable spending. He introduced the Removing Insurance Gaps for Health Treatment (RIGHT) Act of 2025, which aims to expand short-term limited-duration health plans from four months to one year, renewable for up to three years. He stated this bill is a practical, no-cost approach to offer families more choice, control, and flexibility.
Democratic Candidate
No Democratic candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Russell Fulcher |
|---|---|
| Economy | Representative Russell Fulcher voted for H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, to codify President Trump's policy agenda, aiming for economic growth by extending 2017 tax cuts and eliminating taxes on tips and overtime. He also supported a $900 billion COVID relief package in December 2020 but opposed the $1.9 trillion ARPA bill in March 2021, emphasizing the importance of balanced budgets. High |
| Immigration | Russell Fulcher supports immigration reform and prioritizes border security as a constitutional responsibility of Congress to protect national sovereignty. He voted in favor of the Homeland Security Appropriations Act, which allocates resources to enhance immigration enforcement and homeland defense capabilities. He has also highlighted a "secure border" as an accomplishment. High |
| Healthcare | Congressman Russell Fulcher voted against extending enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits, citing that government mandates and the ACA itself have led to skyrocketing health insurance premiums and unsustainable spending. He introduced the Removing Insurance Gaps for Health Treatment (RIGHT) Act of 2025, which aims to expand short-term limited-duration health plans from four months to one year, renewable for up to three years. He stated this bill is a practical, no-cost approach to offer families more choice, control, and flexibility. High |
| Climate & Energy | Russell Fulcher states that regulating climate change is not a government responsibility and voted against assisting rural electric renewable energy. He advocates for transferring federal lands in Idaho to state and local control, citing the federal government's inability to afford proper land management as a cause for wildfires and a hindrance to economic opportunities. He supports modernizing NEPA to address poorly managed areas and enhance local management of natural resources. High |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Russell Fulcher identifies as 'strongly and consistently pro-life,' stating that life begins at conception and unborn children have an inherent right to life, needing protection. He has voted against bills not upholding the right to life and is a sponsor of HB21, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. Fulcher has earned a 100% voting score from the National Right to Life, an A+ rating from Susan B. Anthony List’s 'National Pro-Life Scorecard,' and a 2% score from the League of Conservation Voters. High |
| Foreign Policy | Russell Fulcher voted in favor of the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act, which provides a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers and enhances investments in 5th and 6th generation aircraft and munitions. He advocates for a robust defense to protect U.S. sovereignty, liberties, and commerce. Fulcher opposes nation-building and prolonged engagements without clear strategy, asserting that military operations must be approved by Congress and led by the U.S. military to defend the homeland and interests. High |
| Education | Russell Fulcher co-sponsored the Stopping Teachers Unions from Damaging Education Needs Today (STUDENT) Act. This legislation aims to rewrite the NEA's federal charter to refocus the union on its primary mission of improving education in America. He has also expressed opposition to federal funding for teachers' unions, advocating for an end to government support for these organizations. Low |
| Gun Policy | Representative Russ Fulcher voted against the U.S. House ban on assault weapons and opposed the Senate Gun Control Act. He believes the latter curtails due process rights and imposes restrictions on law-abiding citizens, asserting that more restrictive gun control does not protect public safety. Fulcher emphasizes the constitutional right to keep and bear arms, opposing universal background checks and waiting periods for firearm purchases. High |
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