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Andy Arriaga

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Andy Arriaga
Image of Andy Arriaga

Candidate, Idaho State Senate District 20

Elections and appointments
Next election

November 3, 2026

Education

Bachelor's

University of California, Los Angeles, 1997

Personal
Birthplace
Los Angeles, Calif.
Profession
Financial Analyst
Contact

Andy Arriaga (Democratic Party) is running for election to the Idaho State Senate to represent District 20. He declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]

Biography

Andy Arriaga was born in Los Angeles, California. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1997. His career experience includes working as a financial analyst, founder of ARRIAGA Capital Group, and serving as a commissioner on the Meridian Solid Waste Advisory Commission.[1]

Elections

2026

See also: Idaho State Senate elections, 2026

Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.

General election

The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.

General election for Idaho State Senate District 20

Incumbent Josh Keyser and Andy Arriaga are running in the general election for Idaho State Senate District 20 on November 3, 2026.

Candidate
Image of Josh Keyser
Josh Keyser (R)
Image of Andy Arriaga
Andy Arriaga (D)

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Endorsements

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2024

See also: Idaho State Senate elections, 2024

General election

General election for Idaho State Senate District 20

Josh Keyser defeated Andy Arriaga in the general election for Idaho State Senate District 20 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Josh Keyser
Josh Keyser (R)
 
69.6
 
18,971
Image of Andy Arriaga
Andy Arriaga (D) Candidate Connection
 
30.4
 
8,281

Total votes: 27,252
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Idaho State Senate District 20

Andy Arriaga advanced from the Democratic primary for Idaho State Senate District 20 on May 21, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Andy Arriaga
Andy Arriaga Candidate Connection
 
100.0
 
956

Total votes: 956
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Republican primary election

Republican primary for Idaho State Senate District 20

Josh Keyser defeated incumbent Chuck Winder in the Republican primary for Idaho State Senate District 20 on May 21, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Josh Keyser
Josh Keyser
 
52.3
 
3,208
Image of Chuck Winder
Chuck Winder
 
47.7
 
2,926

Total votes: 6,134
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Arriaga in this election.

Campaign themes

2026

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Andy Arriaga has not yet completed Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey. If you are Andy Arriaga, click here to fill out Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

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2024

Candidate Connection

Andy Arriaga completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Arriaga's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

I’m running as the Democratic Nominee for Idaho State Senate (Legislature District 20) because Idaho deserves leadership that prioritizes unity and progress. Given my background in public service and infrastructure – currently as a Public Works Analyst with the City of Boise, Utility Financial Management Division – and including my current appointment as a Commissioner on the Meridian Solid Waste Advisory Commission (appointment by Mayor Robert Simison) and past volunteer work with the homeless at Interfaith Sanctuary Family Case Management serving as a Spanish translator for Latino/Hispanic refugees seeking asylum, I am well-positioned to address many of Meridian and western Ada County’s needs. My platform will center on a balanced approach that prioritizes smart growth, affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and public safety, while ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
  • I believe in Bringing Professional Sports Teams to Idaho. One bill I plan to introduce will be aimed at creating incentives and infrastructure to attract professional sports teams to Idaho, boosting our state's economy, promoting local tourism, and building community pride through professional league sports. Sports have a unique power to unite communities and boost our local economy. It’s not just about entertainment—it’s about economic growth and providing opportunities for Idaho to shine on the national stage. I believe in focusing on solutions that unify rather than divide, and this bill reflects my commitment to creating opportunities that bring people closer, not drive them apart - and this bill encompasses that belief.
  • As to Women's Reproductive Rights, I’m calling for more moderate policies that reflect the needs of all Idahoans. It’s time we ensure access to healthcare, protect women's rights, and develop policies that bring us together rather than divide us. I am aligned with the majority of Idahoans on this in seeking less strict and more moderate policies. Raised by a single mom and two sisters, I strongly believe in women's Reproductive Rights and Healthcare, and will always believe this decision is made between a woman and her doctor. As someone raised in a family of strong women, my top priority is ensuring that women have the right to make their own healthcare decisions, including access to safe and legal reproductive care.
  • I would firmly oppose book banning in our schools and libraries. The freedom to read is essential for developing critical thinking, empathy, and a broad worldview. While parents should guide their own children's reading, they shouldn't restrict access for all. Many banned books address crucial societal issues and diverse experiences that are vital for creating informed citizens. Instead of censorship, we should focus on promoting media literacy and open dialogue. I'll advocate for policies that support diverse library collections, protect the judgment of educators, and ensure our educational institutions remain bastions of free thought. By preserving access to a wide range of literature, we empower our youth instead of hindering them.
I believe in rebuilding the middle class and am committed to supporting working families, fostering small business growth, and promoting economic equity. A strong economy should benefit everyone, not just the wealthy. Trickle-down economics has failed, as evidenced by the erosion of the middle class, further worsened by automation eliminating many good-paying jobs. I stand for policies that create economic security for middle- and lower-income families through access to good jobs, affordable housing, and healthcare. By supporting local entrepreneurs, reducing unnecessary regulations, and ensuring they have access to capital, we can drive innovation and economic growth from the ground up, rather than relying on failed top-down approaches.
An elected official should have a proven ability to work across party lines. As a very moderate Democrat, I'm proud that the overwhelming majority of my close friends and colleagues (past and present) are Republicans. This personal experience has honed my skills in finding common ground and fostering collaboration with those who hold different viewpoints.

I'll maintain open communication with House members and the governor's office throughout the legislative process. My track record of working cohesively with people of varying opinions will be invaluable in navigating complex political landscapes. By prioritizing collaboration, transparency, and a willingness to find middle ground, I'm confident we can pass effective legislation that serves the best interests of District 20 and all Idahoans, regardless of political affiliation.

An elected official should demonstrate leadership that prioritizes unity and progress. While it is important to have a unique perspective, my approach to crafting bills will be data-driven and community-focused, drawing on input from experts, stakeholders, and constituents. To work effectively with the other chamber and the governor, I'll leverage my experience in building strong relationships across party lines. I'll focus on areas of mutual interest and remain open to compromise, always aiming to meet in the middle when possible.

Government transparency and accountability is always important in public office as the position reports to the people and constituents first and foremost. Public service is an honor and privilege - I have a passion, desire, and strong commitment towards public service and welcome the opportunity to serve as an Idaho State Senator to continue this journey.
Idaho Legislative District 20, in Meridian and western Ada County, faces pressing issues due to rapid growth. Education funding needs increase to support growing student populations and improve infrastructure. Affordable housing is crucial as prices soar, requiring policies that balance development with community needs. Transportation improvements are necessary to combat congestion. Healthcare access remains a concern, with priorities including Medicaid expansion and mental health services. Economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and public safety are also key focus areas. The district needs strategies for water management, clean energy, and community well-being. A balanced approach prioritizing smart growth, affordable housing, healthcare access, and public safety is essential, along with governmental transparency and accountability.

An elected official should have a proven ability to work across party lines, find common ground, and foster collaboration with those who hold different viewpoints.

I'll maintain open communication with House members and the governor's office throughout the legislative process. My track record of working cohesively with people of varying opinions will be invaluable in navigating complex political landscapes. By prioritizing collaboration, transparency, and a willingness to find middle ground, I'm confident we can pass effective legislation that serves the best interests of District 20 and all Idahoans, regardless of political affiliation.

An elected official should demonstrate leadership that prioritizes unity and progress. While it is important to have a unique perspective, my approach to crafting bills will be data-driven and community-focused, drawing on input from experts, stakeholders, and constituents. To work effectively with the other chamber and the governor, I'll leverage my experience in building strong relationships across party lines.
In 2016, I was diagnosed with Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA), a lung infection that would affect my life for the next eight years. This diagnosis required me to pause some of my long-term plans and aspirations as I focused on managing my health. Living with ABPA presented daily challenges. Routine activities became more difficult, and I had to adjust my lifestyle to accommodate my condition. During this time, I found myself looking for ways to stay engaged and productive despite my health limitations. This period of adjustment led me to explore opportunities in public service and volunteer work. What started as a way to stay active and contribute to my community gradually developed into a genuine interest. Through these activities, I gained new perspectives on community needs and the impact of local engagement.

On December 29, 2023, I underwent thoracic surgery to remove an infected portion of my right lung. The procedure was successful, marking a significant improvement in my health and opening up new possibilities for my future and daily life. As I recovered from surgery, I began to revisit some of the goals I had set aside. One of these was the idea of seeking public office as my experiences over the past eight years had given me a unique viewpoint on various community issues. I'm now bringing with me a practical understanding of the obstacles many in our community face. My goal is to use this knowledge to advocate for improved support systems and to work on policies that can make a tangible difference in people's lives. My journey with ABPA, while challenging, has ultimately expanded my perspective on community needs and public service. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to apply these lessons in a official capacity, working to create positive changes in our community. Most importantly, this experience has taught me that when you start focusing on others rather than yourself, other things will tend to fall into place.
My approach to crafting bills will be data-driven and community-focused, drawing on input from experts, stakeholders, and constituents. To work effectively with the other chamber and the governor, I'll leverage my experience in building strong relationships across party lines. I'll focus on areas of mutual interest and remain open to compromise, always aiming to meet in the middle when possible.
I'll maintain open communication with House members and the governor's office throughout the legislative process. My track record of working cohesively with people of varying opinions will be invaluable in navigating complex political landscapes. By prioritizing collaboration, transparency, and a willingness to find middle ground, I'm confident we can pass effective legislation that serves the best interests of District 20 and all Idahoans, regardless of political affiliation.
Idaho Legislative District 20, in Meridian and western Ada County, faces pressing issues due to rapid growth. Education funding needs increase to support growing student populations and improve infrastructure. Affordable housing is crucial as prices soar, requiring policies that balance development with community needs. Transportation improvements are necessary to combat congestion. Healthcare access remains a concern, with priorities including Medicaid expansion and mental health services. Economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and public safety are also key focus areas. The district needs strategies for water management, clean energy, and community well-being. A balanced approach prioritizing smart growth, affordable housing, healthcare access, and public safety is essential, along with governmental transparency and accountability.

Given my background in public service and infrastructure, including current volunteer work with the Meridian Solid Waste Advisory Commission and past volunteer work with Interfaith Sanctuary for the Homeless as a Spanish translator for Latin/Hispanic refugees, I am well-positioned to address many of Meridian’s needs. My platform will center on a balanced approach that prioritizes smart growth, affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and public safety, while ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
As your senator for Idaho Legislature District 20, I would bring a unique perspective and proven ability to work across party lines. To work effectively with the other chamber and the governor, I'll leverage my experience in building strong relationships across party lines. I'll focus on areas of mutual interest and remain open to compromise, always aiming to meet in the middle when possible. I'll maintain open communication with House members and the governor's office throughout the legislative process. My track record of working cohesively with people of varying opinions will be invaluable in navigating complex political landscapes. By prioritizing collaboration, transparency, and a willingness to find middle ground, I'm confident we can pass effective legislation that serves the best interests of District 20 and all Idahoans, regardless of political affiliation.
One bill I plan to introduce will be aimed at creating incentives and infrastructure to attract professional sports teams to Idaho, boosting our state's economy, promoting local tourism, and building community pride through professional league sports (NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, MLS, etc.). I plan to introduce a bill that will bring professional sports teams to Idaho, with the goal of uniting our communities around a shared passion for sports. This initiative is about fostering state pride, boosting our economy, and providing common ground where people of all backgrounds can come together. I believe in focusing on solutions that unify rather than divide, and this bill reflects my commitment to creating opportunities that bring people closer, not drive them apart.
Government transparency and accountability is always important in public office as the position reports to the people and constituents first and foremost. Public service is an honor and privilege - I have a passion, desire, and strong commitment towards public service and welcome the opportunity to serve as an Idaho State Senator to continue this journey.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary


Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.


Andy Arriaga campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* Idaho State Senate District 20Lost general$0 $0
Grand total$0 $0
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 8, 2024


Current members of the Idaho State Senate
Leadership
Majority Leader:Lori Den Hartog
Minority Leader:Melissa Wintrow
Senators
District 1
District 2
Phil Hart (R)
District 3
District 4
Ben Toews (R)
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
Ben Adams (R)
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
District 17
District 18
District 19
District 20
District 21
District 22
District 23
District 24
District 25
Josh Kohl (R)
District 26
District 27
District 28
District 29
District 30
District 31
District 32
District 33
District 34
District 35
Republican Party (29)
Democratic Party (6)