Idaho GOP, Dems Setting Up Ground Game in Key Districts

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho only has a handful of competitive legislative races in the upcoming general election, but party officials on both sides are prepping for heated battles in key legislative districts across the state.

The state's Republican Party recently announced the launch of two field offices in northern Idaho, with the hope of ousting one of Idaho's legislative minority leaders and picking up a few more Republican seats as well. The move hasn't intimidated Idaho Democrats; instead they argue that this year's presidential elections could move more voters in their favor.

In 2014, House Minority Leader John Rusche defeated his Republican opponent by roughly 50 votes. Republicans are now setting up shop in his district. However, Democratic officials counter a volatile election year could encourage voters to stray from supporting GOP candidates.