IDAHO FALLS — Following two terms in office, current Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen is seeking her third term for Idaho’s Legislative District 32A.
Mickelsen is encountering a Primary challenge from Kelly Golden, a radio executive with experience in nonprofit community outreach and fundraising.
Sent a survey to every applicant. Their answers were required to be 250 words or less. Mickelsen's raw responses are listed below. Golden did not submit her survey to .
The individual who secures victory in the primary will appear on the general election ballot on November 3. The primary election is scheduled for May 19.
For additional candidate questionnaires and more details about this year's primary election, visitEast Idaho Elects.
What motivates you to pursue a political position in your local area? Provide a short overview of your political agenda.
Mickelsen:I have called Idaho home my entire life, working as a farmer, business owner, and public official with strong ties to eastern Idaho. My husband and I have been married for 38 years, and we are happy parents and grandparents to 18 grandchildren, as well as members of a family that has farmed for multiple generations.
For almost four decades, my family and I have been involved in establishing and managing a significant agricultural enterprise, and I hold the position of CFO within our family-owned business. My involvement in farming and commerce has provided me with direct insight into the difficulties encountered by families, businesses, and rural areas in Idaho.
I am currently an Idaho State Representative and have previously taken on leadership positions in areas such as water management, agriculture, education, and healthcare, including involvement with the Idaho Groundwater Appropriators, College of Eastern Idaho, and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. My commitment in public service is to safeguard Idaho's resources, assist families and local communities, and create a solid future for the upcoming generation.
What are the biggest issues affecting residents in your area? How do you intend to address and resolve these problems?
Mickelsen:I'm running for public office because I have a deep passion for the well-being and future of our local communities. Having lived, worked, and raised my family in eastern Idaho, I know that thriving communities are formed through quality employment opportunities, solid educational systems, secure living environments, and effective local governance.
I am dedicated to safeguarding Idaho's water and natural resources, promoting agriculture and local enterprises, enhancing education and vocational training, and ensuring community safety through support for law enforcement and emergency services. I also emphasize the importance of local authority, sustainable development, and policies that help maintain an affordable cost of living for families.
I'm moving forward with actionable, community-centered leadership that safeguards our lifestyle and keeps our local areas robust for coming generations.
What is the most effective way to convey the opinions of your voters — including those who hold different political beliefs? In what ways do political divisions affect your responsibilities as an elected official?
Mickelsen:Residents throughout our area are experiencing the impact of increased energy expenses, higher food costs, unaffordable housing, and general inflation. These economic challenges are making it more difficult for families to look ahead, while our neighborhoods also deal with the task of handling expansion, preserving facilities, and providing prospects for future generations.
My emphasis is on maintaining affordability in Idaho while making thoughtful investments in our future. This involves managing state budgets effectively, focusing on critical services, and steering clear of excessive spending that leads to lasting financial burdens. I advocate for financially prudent budgets, safeguarding emergency funds, and making wise investments in education, vocational training, and preserving infrastructure that sustains local employment and enhances our communities.
Ensuring public safety is essential for building resilient communities. I stand behind law enforcement and emergency personnel, and I think it's important to provide them with the necessary equipment and support to safeguard our families—particularly from child abusers and individuals who endanger community well-being.
By emphasizing prudent financial planning, backing police efforts, safeguarding taxpayers, and funding education and prospects, we can reduce economic strain on households now while maintaining Idaho's affordability and creating resilient communities for the years ahead.
Which areas of the legislative budget require additional financial support? What sections of the budget are potential candidates for reductions?
Mickelsen:I think successful advocacy begins with listening. Although we might not always share the same views, I am dedicated to respecting all individuals, understanding various viewpoints, and making careful choices that benefit our district as a whole.
My strategy is to concentrate on common goals—vibrant communities, secure areas, cost-effective housing, and prospects for upcoming generations. Despite differing opinions, many individuals seek effective governance, robust local economies, and regulations that support family success.
I will remain available, clear, and quick to respond to every member of the community. By prioritizing listening, maintaining open dialogue, and concentrating on real-world solutions, I am committed to fairly and honestly representing our whole district.
Should ethics investigations within the Idaho Legislature be kept confidential from the public, or do you think they should be open and transparent? Explain your reasoning.
Mickelsen:We need to begin by thoroughly examining programs that are not providing substantial benefits to taxpayers. If a program is not achieving its objectives, overlapping with other services, or lacking proper accountability, it should be revised or discontinued. I also think there is a need for increased transparency and monitoring of agency budgets to minimize discretionary funds and ensure that taxpayer money is spent efficiently and as intended.
At the same time, we must keep focusing on areas that enhance our communities and ensure lasting affordability. This involves education and vocational training, public safety and police services, and preserving infrastructure that fosters economic possibilities. Thoughtful investments in these sectors contribute to developing a capable workforce, maintaining secure neighborhoods, and promoting steady development.
By eliminating inefficient programs and focusing on wise investments, we can safeguard taxpayers, maintain fiscal responsibility, and ensure that we are investing in Idaho's future.
Water availability and management are essential for agriculture and development in eastern Idaho. Which particular approach or law would you endorse to safeguard groundwater and surface water sources, and what is your schedule for achieving noticeable progress?
Mickelsen:I think that ethics and openness are crucial for keeping the public's confidence. Residents of Idaho want responsibility, but they also want justice. Before being made public, ethics complaints should first be examined to see if they have any validity. We have noticed a rise in complaints being used as tools for political maneuvering, and it's vital that people aren't unjustly damaged without proof. After a complaint has been assessed and determined to be legitimate, the procedure should then be open and visible to the public.
I also think there's room for improvement in increasing transparency within the Legislature. This is why I proposed a bill that mandates the disclosure of out-of-state travel expenses covered by private entities. Although in-state lobbying activities are documented and monitored, travel supported by external organizations isn't always made public. My legislation aims to ensure that Idaho residents are aware of who is financing such trips and to enhance trust in the legislative system.
By promoting ethical evaluations and increased openness, we can safeguard both responsibility and honesty within the Legislature.
In March 2026, the Idaho House approved House Joint Memorial 17, asking the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse the 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision that made same-sex marriage legal across the country. Do you support the majority view of the Idaho House? Do you stand against same-sex marriage in Idaho?
Mickelsen:I think that marriage policies have traditionally been set by the states and their citizens, and I am in favor of maintaining the states' role in making such decisions. House Joint Memorial 17 was a non-binding proposal that conveyed this viewpoint and promoted a more extensive constitutional conversation.
At the same time, I acknowledge that the current laws of the country are determined by the U.S. Supreme Court, and I hold that authority in high regard. My role as a legislator is centered on the issues that have the greatest effect on families within our district — affordability, vibrant communities, education, public safety, and economic opportunities.
No matter where people are on this topic, I think every Idahoan deserves to be treated with respect and honor. My main focus is to represent all constituents in my district and address the issues that have the greatest impact on their everyday lives.
The post A two-term representative aims to keep her position in District 32A appeared first on East Idaho News.
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