James D. Ruchti
James D. Ruchti (Democratic) is the incumbent member of the Idaho State Senate representing District 29 (Bannock County), running for re-election in the November 3, 2026 general election. Official legislative biography notes: Assistant Minority Leader Born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho; graduate of West Point (1993) and the University of Idaho College of Law (2001); partner, Ruchti and Beck Law Offices (2009-present); U.S. Army military intelligence officer (1993-1998); past president, Idaho Trial Lawyers Association (2017-18); Idaho Trial Lawyer of the Year (2025); spouse: Wendy; children: Spencer and Drew.
Campaign site
“First Key Message: Commitment to Education I believe in the power of public education to transform lives and communities. My focus is on ensuring that every child in Idaho has access to a high-quality education, which is essential for a bright future and a strong economy.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey) “Second Key Message: Hard Work, Fairness and Economic Growth My vision includes an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy. I advocate for fair wages, affordable housing, and policies that support small businesses and rural communities, aiming to create a balanced and sustainable economic environment. In Idaho, hard work should pay off, no matter who you are or where you live or what you do for a living.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey) “Third Key Message: Healthcare Access and Autonomy I am dedicated to making healthcare accessible and affordable for all Idahoans. This includes supporting medical freedom and ensuring that individuals have the right to make personal health decisions without undue government interference.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey)John Crowder
John Crowder (Republican) is a candidate for the Idaho State Senate in District 29 (Bannock County) in the November 3, 2026 general election. John Crowder qualified with the Idaho Secretary of State (VoteIdaho.gov) to appear on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot for Senate District 29.
· Ballotpedia (secondary source)
Campaign site
“John Adams, our second President, noted that the Constitution was designed for a moral and religious people. Our Founders understood that it is not written laws alone that restrain ambition or self-interest, but the strength of individual conscience. Faith and moral conviction have long been central to sustaining the American experiment.”
(John Crowder campaign website) “Our nation’s founding principles reflect shared values that every person is endowed by our Creator with unalienable rights, including Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. Because the right to life is the foundation of all other rights, it deserves our strongest protection.”
(John Crowder campaign website) “These principles guide our civic life; they are not campaign promises, but a common moral framework that informs public debate and policy.”
(John Crowder campaign website)