With the Idaho gubernatorial race just days away, voters are hearing a flurry of campaign ads from incumbent Governor Brad Little and Democratic challenger Terri Pickens. Idaho News 6 has broken down the key claims in the ads to help Idaho families separate fact from political framing.
Governor Little’s tax‑credit claim
In a televised spot, Governor Little says, “I cut the tax on groceries and everyday items.” The governor did not eliminate the six‑percent sales tax on groceries – the highest rate in the nation according to AARP – but he did sign House Bill 231 in March 2025, which expands the state’s grocery tax credit to a flat $155 per person. That translates to an additional $15 for seniors and $35 for all other residents each year. The governor’s office notes that the credit is available regardless of earned‑income level, meaning even households without wages can claim it when filing their returns.
Overall tax‑cut figures
The campaign also boasts, “We’ve cut taxes by almost $5 billion and strengthened our small businesses.” A June report from the Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy confirms the $5 billion figure but adds important context: the bulk of the savings went to the wealthiest Idahoans. The top 1 % of earners received an average tax reduction of $20,407, while the median‑income household saw a modest $453 benefit. The bottom 20 % of earners received just $33 on average. Governor Little’s office responded that the lower flat income‑tax rate is intended to create a “simpler, fairer tax system,” a point the fact‑check places near the top of the story.
Wage‑growth claim
Another claim in the ad states, “Now Idahoans have some of the fastest‑growing wages in America.” The Idaho Department of Labor reports that Idaho ranked third nationally for wage growth in 2025. Average hourly wages rose 4.7 % from 2024 to 2025 – an increase of $1.31 per hour – and median wages grew 3.2 %, or 72 cents per hour. This data supports the governor’s assertion of strong wage momentum.
Terri Pickens’ data‑center assertions
Democratic challenger Terri Pickens, a fourth‑generation Idahoan from Pocatello, highlighted a proposed 4 million‑square‑foot data center near Blacks Creek. Idaho News 6 confirms that a private company has indeed applied for a data‑center project in the area, though the Bureau of Land Management has not verified the exact size. For perspective, the Regional Plan Association notes that the average data center is about 100,000 square feet, suggesting the proposed facility would be unusually large.
Pickens also claimed the project is being developed “working directly with the Trump administration and our governor.” The White House website lists 12‑17 data‑center proposals on public lands nationwide and notes an order to expedite such projects. However, Governor Little’s office told Idaho News 6 that neither the governor nor his administration has been involved in the Blacks Creek proposal, and no documentation shows a direct partnership with the private developer, Rhea Energy.
What Idaho voters should know
Both candidates are presenting ambitious narratives as the election approaches. Governor Little’s tax‑credit expansion and record wage growth are tangible achievements for many families, though the distribution of tax savings leans heavily toward higher‑income households. Pickens’ emphasis on a large data‑center project underscores economic development opportunities, yet the lack of direct state involvement raises questions about the claim of collaboration.
Idaho voters are encouraged to consider the full context of these statements when heading to the polls. The fact‑check highlights where claims align with official data and where additional nuance is needed, helping families make informed choices for the state’s future.
Original reporting: KIVI Idaho News 6 Boise metro (local) — read the source article.
