Idaho Dems Face Uphill Battle for Congressional Seats

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Three first-time Democratic candidates are running for congressional seats in Idaho, but they face an uphill battle in convincing voters to swing left in a Republican-dominant state.

U.S. Rep. Raul Labrador is being challenged by James Piotrowski, a Boise attorney; while U.S. Rep. Mike Simpson faces Jennifer Martinez, a community activist from Twin Falls. U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo is running against Jerry Sturgill, a Boise businessman. All three incumbents have solidly won their seats in prior general elections.

The last Democrat to hold a House seat in Idaho was in 2009 when former U.S. Rep. Walt Minnick won the state's 1st Congressional District. Idaho hasn't had a Democratic senator since Frank Church won in 1951.