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Ryan Augusta
Ryan Augusta (independent) is running for election to the Idaho House of Representatives to represent District 6A. He declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]
Augusta completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Ryan Augusta was born in Kalispell, Montana. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1996 to 2001. He graduated from Flathead High School. He earned an associate degree from Spokane Community College in 2023. His career experience includes working as a caregiver, for AmeriCorps VISTA, and as the founder of Reminiscence Theater. He has been affiliated with Evergreen Rotary (61961), the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Trinity Reformed Church.[1][2]
Elections
2026
See also: Idaho House of Representatives elections, 2026
General election
The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.
General election for Idaho House of Representatives District 6A
Incumbent Lori McCann, Trish Carter-Goodheart, Colton Bennett, and Ryan Augusta are running in the general election for Idaho House of Representatives District 6A on November 3, 2026.
Candidate | ||
![]() | Lori McCann (R) | |
![]() | Trish Carter-Goodheart (D) | |
![]() | Colton Bennett (R) | |
![]() | Ryan Augusta (Independent) ![]() |
![]() | ||||
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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Endorsements
Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.
2024
See also: Idaho House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
General election for Idaho House of Representatives District 6A
Incumbent Lori McCann defeated Trish Carter-Goodheart and Ryan Augusta in the general election for Idaho House of Representatives District 6A on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
✔ | ![]() | Lori McCann (R) | 64.8 | 17,794 |
![]() | Trish Carter-Goodheart (D) | 35.2 | 9,648 | |
![]() | Ryan Augusta (Independent) (Write-in) ![]() | 0.0 | 3 |
Total votes: 27,445 | ||||
![]() | ||||
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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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for Idaho House of Representatives District 6A
Trish Carter-Goodheart advanced from the Democratic primary for Idaho House of Representatives District 6A on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
✔ | ![]() | Trish Carter-Goodheart | 100.0 | 1,069 |
Total votes: 1,069 | ||||
![]() | ||||
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 House of Representatives District 6A
Incumbent Lori McCann defeated Colton Bennett and Dave Dalby in the Republican primary for Idaho House of Representatives District 6A on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
✔ | ![]() | Lori McCann | 43.6 | 2,814 |
![]() | Colton Bennett ![]() | 40.5 | 2,614 | |
![]() | Dave Dalby ![]() | 15.8 | 1,022 |
Total votes: 6,450 | ||||
![]() | ||||
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. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. |
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Augusta in this election.
Campaign themes
2026
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Ryan Augusta completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Augusta's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Candidate for Idaho House of Representatives - District 6A
HCA Caregiver / Nurse Delegated / Medicine Assistant Certified 2017 - 2024
AmeriCorps VISTA 2018-2019, The Arc of Idaho
Volunteer / VP of Booths and Traffic Control Moscow Renaissance Fair 2022-2024
Sole Member U.clean, LLC. 2020-2023
Founder Reminiscence Theater 2007-2024
Rotarian Evergreen (61961) Life
E-3 PFC ARMY Reserve 88M, Kalispell, Montana 889th.QM 1996-2001 Chapter 6 Veteran (DEP, 1996)
- As a citizen of the Inland Northwest and a constitutional conservative, I support congressional term limits and stand with the overwhelming majority of Idaho voters who believe that public service should be a duty, not a lifetime entitlement.
- Civil disobedience is the willingness to accept the consequences of a law that violates our civil liberties. We have citizens in medical need hiding instead of accepting the consequences. If you want to reduce crime legalize cannabis. We will reduce crime by over 13% overnight.
- Reducing poverty among this vulnerable group requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond employment opportunities and social support. We must also address the economic barriers they face, particularly the significant cost of prescription medications, which often consumes a substantial portion of their limited income.
As an HCA caregiver and veteran with 14 years of legislative experience, I’m running to build a more inclusive Idaho. My priorities are:
• Accessibility – Ensure all public meetings are inclusive with accommodations like captions, ASL, and virtual options.
• Senior Services – Build compassionate, age-friendly infrastructure and healthcare access.
Accessibility – A strong commitment to making public life inclusive, especially for people with disabilities and seniors.
Service-Oriented Leadership – A lifetime of community service, from AmeriCorps to the Army Reserve to local volunteerism, reflects dedication to serving others.
Practical Optimism – The campaign promotes realistic, community-driven solutions with a hopeful vision for Idaho.
My background in community engagement—from my time volunteering to starting a small business—has given me practical experience in problem-solving, collaboration, and finding creative solutions to local challenges. I understand the need for accountability and transparency in government, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that the voices of all constituents are heard.
Through my work in caregiving, volunteering, and advocating for seniors and individuals with disabilities, I hope to leave a lasting impact by ensuring that our systems and policies are more accessible, more compassionate, and more responsive to the needs of every resident. My goal is to create a legacy of connection, where people from all walks of life work together to build stronger, more resilient communities.
However, this struggle has taught me valuable lessons about resilience, self-care, and the importance of setting boundaries while still being present for those who need me. It has made me more empathetic and understanding of the challenges others face in balancing their own lives, and it has shaped my approach to leadership—where I prioritize both individual needs and community health.
As a caregiver and veteran, I know the importance of listening first, acting with humility, and leading with service. The legislature should be a partner and a constitutional check—ensuring that executive decisions reflect the needs and values of the people.
Affordable Healthcare and Senior Services: With a growing aging population and gaps in accessibility, we need to ensure seniors, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities have access to affordable healthcare and services. We must build systems that address long-term care, mental health, and preventive care for all.
Economic Development and Rural Access: While Idaho’s economy is growing, many rural communities lack access to the resources and infrastructure they need to thrive. Small businesses and local entrepreneurs should be supported, particularly those in caregiving and direct services, so we can cultivate a more sustainable, inclusive economy.
Education and Workforce Development: We must address the skills gap by strengthening our education system and providing greater access to vocational training, especially for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A strong, diverse workforce will support Idaho’s growth in all sectors.
Environmental Sustainability: As our state grows, we need to protect our natural resources and promote responsible land use that supports both our environment and communities.
I believe the most effective legislators are those who bring fresh perspectives and a commitment to service, rather than those who are bound by the status quo. My approach will be rooted in the principles of accessibility, inclusivity, and practical solutions, and I’m ready to bring that spirit of service to the Capitol.
As a caregiver and volunteer, I know that building trust and mutual respect is vital to achieving goals and overcoming challenges. I’ll work to foster relationships with my colleagues, regardless of party affiliation, to ensure we prioritize the well-being of the people we serve. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Idaho.
Baucus’ emphasis on accessibility, collaboration, and effective policy is something I strive to embody in my own approach to leadership. I want to ensure that, like him, I work diligently to advocate for all constituents, especially those who often go unheard.
While I remain committed to being a public servant, my current focus is entirely on improving Idaho's policies and building a more inclusive, accessible, and thriving state. I’m dedicated to listening to my constituents and working on the issues that matter most to them, here in our community.
One story that deeply resonated with me came from a senior woman who had spent decades caring for her husband after a stroke. When her health began to decline, she found it incredibly difficult to access the care she needed, both for herself and her spouse. As a caregiver, she was overwhelmed, but the systems designed to support her felt out of reach or insufficient.
This story is not unique—I've heard similar struggles many times, both as a caregiver myself and through my work volunteering and helping others in our community. It reinforced my belief that we need to create more comprehensive, accessible, and compassionate support systems, especially for seniors and caregivers who dedicate their lives to others.
Because he was outstanding in his field!
During times of crisis, we need to ensure that our government remains accountable to the people it serves. No one branch should have unchecked authority, especially in situations where citizens’ rights and freedoms could be impacted. Oversight and review by the legislature provide necessary accountability while ensuring that emergency powers are not abused or extended beyond what is necessary for public safety.
I would propose the creation of regional care networks that would ensure seniors and individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services, in-home care, and mental health resources more easily. These networks would be supported by local partnerships between healthcare providers, caregivers, and community organizations, with key metrics to track service use, wait times, and health outcomes.
I believe this bill would provide immediate, measurable benefits to our district, especially for those who often feel left out of state policy decisions. Additionally, I would ensure that it includes annual reporting on how well these networks are performing and how they are improving access to care—making sure that there is ongoing accountability.
Health & Welfare – To advocate for seniors, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities, and help craft policies that expand access to inclusive and compassionate healthcare services.
Commerce & Human Resources – To support small business development, caregiver-led enterprises, and worker protections—especially for those in direct care and support roles.
Education – To encourage partnerships between schools and local businesses and promote vocational training, especially for underserved and neurodiverse populations.
Government should lead by example: transparent budgets, open communication, and clear reporting. That includes making public records easily accessible, ensuring contracts and spending reflect community priorities, and holding elected officials and agencies accountable for their actions.
If elected, I will advocate for reforms that ensure the ballot initiative process remains open, clear, and easy to navigate for all citizens. I believe it is crucial that the process be a true reflection of the people’s will, and that it remains a tool for meaningful public participation in shaping Idaho's laws and policies.
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.
2024
Ryan Augusta completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Augusta's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Candidate for Idaho House of Representatives - District 6A
Independent / Non-Partisan
HCA Caregiver / Nurse Delegated / Medicine Assistant Certified 2017 - 2024
AmeriCorps VISTA 2018-2019, The Arc of Idaho
Volunteer / VP of Booths and Traffic Control Moscow Renaissance Fair 2022-2024
Co-Founder Boise Hempfest 2015-2021
Moscow Hemp Fest Master of Ceremonies 2017-2024
Sole Member U.clean, LLC. 2020-2023
Hemp
Founder Reminiscence Theater 2007-2024
Rotarian Evergreen (61961) Life
E-3 PFC ARMY Reserve 88M, Kalispell, Montana 88th.QM 1996-2001 Chapter 6 Veteran (Delayed Entry Program, 1996)
- I am running because I believe in a brighter, more inclusive Idaho. As an HCA caregiver, I see the potential for positive change every day. My passion is to ensure everyone, especially those with disabilities and our seniors, feels included and supported.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Let's make public meetings accessible for all.
Senior Services: Inspired by my Great Grandmother, we'll create senior-friendly infrastructure.
Economic Development: By supporting small businesses, we can turn dreams into reality.
With 14 years of legislative experience and a heart for caregiving, I'm ready to bring optimism and practical solutions to District 6A.
Together, we can build bridges and create a thriving community for everyone. - Hello, I'm Ryan Wayne Augusta, and I am running for the Idaho House of Representatives - District 6A. My journey as a dedicated HCA Caregiver and an Independent non-partisan candidate has shaped my focus on key issues that deeply impact our community. Accessibility and Inclusivity in Public Meetings is a priority. As an HCA Certified In-Home Caregiver, I firmly believe that we can reduce poverty and increase inclusion by providing reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. My experience has taught me the importance of approaching these challenges with a compassionate mindset, grounded in the lived experiences of those navigating our less than equitable infrastructure.
- Accessibility and Inclusivity in Public Meetings - Providing accommodations for people with disabilities in public meetings. -Implement real-time captioning and sign language interpretation for all public meetings. -Ensure all meeting venues are physically accessible, including ramps, elevators, and hearing loops. -Facilitate virtual participation options to include those unable to attend in person due to disabilities. •Aging and Senior Services - Senior-friendly infrastructure. -Advocate for the development of age-friendly public spaces that promote safety and accessibility. -Support policies that ensure affordable and comprehensive healthcare services for seniors. -Promote community-based programs.
I am honored to address you as a write-in candidate for our State Representative seat A of District 6. Our community is at a crossroads where the health and well-being of the population intersect with the imperative need for progressive cannabis legislation. This announcement highlights the critical parallels between cannabis legislation and the need for empathy driven wellness plans within our community.
While sidewalk chalking downtown Boise an officer thanked me, this is what he said, "No officer wants to arrest a Grandmother in their home for self medicating, so they choose not to enforce the law. This weakens the justice system. By building legislation that supports those individuals you are making the justice system stronger. Thanks," - Boise Police 2011.
The dichotomy discovered that day rang ironic bells of truth. We make satirical humor about people that have chosen to consume a plant. Untrue and unchallenged for fear of retribution citizens conform to the placated joke that has been conveyed by a status quo.
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
Campaign finance information for this candidate is not yet available from OpenSecrets. That information will be published here once it is available.
See also
2026 Elections
External links
Candidate Idaho House of Representatives District 6A |
Personal |
Footnotes