February 9, 2025; Cover Photo Credit: ID Secretary of State
Idaho’s Growing Electorate: Surprising Trends in Voter Registration
By: Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane
This week, I had the opportunity to speak with over 300 Idaho REALTORS® during their visit to the State Capitol. As professionals who help so many newcomers find their homes, they were especially interested in what the data tells us about who is moving to Idaho—and how they are registering to vote.
Showcasing the rich data visualization dashboards available at VoteIdaho.gov, we explored voter registration trends that flip conventional wisdom on its head. While many assume that new residents, particularly those from California, bring different political leanings, the data tells a different story. The vast majority of these transplants—whether from California or virtually any other state—register as Republicans when they move to Idaho. This data produced by our office has drawn national attention, with coverage in The Washington Post and Los Angeles Times.
Beyond voter registration, I also highlighted the campaign finance data dashboard, another powerful tool available at VoteIdaho.gov. Idahoans can see exactly who is funding campaigns, where money is coming from, and how it’s being spent—transparency that strengthens trust in our elections.
The Idaho REALTORS® were a receptive audience. They see Idaho’s growth firsthand, and this data provided new insight into the electoral landscape shaping our state.
If you’re curious about these trends, I encourage you to explore the data yourself at VoteIdaho.gov/data-and-dashboards. Idaho’s electorate is evolving, and understanding these shifts helps us all stay engaged.
Phil McGrane
