Terri Pickens
Elections and appointments
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Contact
Terri Pickens (Democratic Party) is running for election for Governor of Idaho. She declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]
Pickens completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Terri Pickens was born in Pocatello, Idaho. She graduated from Highland High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California in 1994. She earned a J.D. from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1998. Pickens' career experience includes working as an attorney.[1][2]
Elections
2026
See also: Idaho gubernatorial election, 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.
Endorsements
Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.
2022
See also: Idaho lieutenant gubernatorial election, 2022
General election
Democratic primary election
Republican primary election
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
Constitution primary election
2026
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Terri Pickens completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Pickens' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Terri Pickens is a fourth generation Idahoan, born and raised in Pocatello. Terri graduated from Highland High School and went on to the University of Southern California, where she graduated with a B.A. in Political Science in 1994. Terri returned to Idaho to attend the University of Idaho College of Law where she participated in the Idaho Law Review, Appellate Clinic, and she earned her J.D. in 1998. After law school, she was a Public Defender for Nez Perce County in Lewiston. In 1999, Terri relocated to Boise to start her career as a trial attorney.
Terri is the founding partner of Pickens Law, P.A., a firm she started in 2008. Terri practices in the area of real estate litigation, construction litigation and general commercial litigation. She is a member of the Idaho State Bar, the Idaho Women Lawyers, the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association, and she is licensed to practice before the United States District Court for the District of Idaho and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Terri is regularly in court and has tried many cases in the District Court and argued several appeals to the Idaho Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit.
Terri is running for Governor because it is time for change in Idaho. For too long Idahoans have voted against their own interests, assuming that the people they vote for will have their best interests at heart simply because of the party affiliation next to their names. - A strong economy for everyday Idahoans starts with investing in people, not handing out oversized tax breaks to the wealthy and well-connected. When we prioritize fully funded public schools, affordable colleges, and workforce training, we prepare Idahoans to fill good-paying jobs and strengthen our communities from the ground up. Pair that with modern infrastructure—roads, broadband, and utilities that reach every corner of the state—and you create the foundation for small businesses and family farms to grow and thrive. That’s how you build a resilient economy: by making sure every Idahoan has the tools to succeed.
- Education is a cornerstone of a healthy society. Idaho, for too long, has failed its children. Terri is committed to put the education for Idaho's children first. Public education is critical to ensure that all Idahoans have the equal opportunity to learn and get a head start in life. In order to be a successful state, we must first have successful citizens.. Terri support public education, pre-K education, full time kindergarten, and full access to public education all across Idaho, whether rural or urban. Funding is critical to a strong public education system, and she will support Idaho’s public education system, our teachers, and do everything she can to repeal the unconstitutional voucher scheme in Idaho.
- Terri will use her voice and stand up for the dignity and freedom of all Idahoans. She believes in civil rights and she will be a champion for citizens, ensuring that all of their rights are protected. Terri supports equal rights, equal justice, and equal opportunity for all. We are living in a time when our rights are being challenged. Women deserve bodily autonomy, parents should be able to make medical decisions for their children, people should be able to love who they love and get the medical treatments they need. Teachers are not the enemy, doctors are not the enemy, books are not the enemy. We all deserve basic fundamental freedoms.
I stand for a government that works for everyday Idahoans—not billionaires or political insiders. My priorities are lowering costs for working families, protecting public education, and defending our freedoms from government overreach. I believe in creating good-paying jobs through investment in infrastructure, clean energy, and small businesses, not corporate tax breaks. Health care should be affordable and accessible to all, and our veterans, seniors, and rural communities deserve respect and resources. I’ll fight to protect Idaho’s public lands, clean water, and way of life. Above all, I’ll lead with transparency, integrity, and a deep commitment to the people—not the powerful.
The most important characteristics and principles for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and empathy. Integrity ensures they act honestly and put the public good above personal gain. Accountability means being transparent, listening to constituents, and taking responsibility for decisions. Empathy allows them to understand and serve people from all walks of life. They should also show courage to do what’s right—even when it’s unpopular—and humility to admit mistakes and learn from others. Strong leadership comes from conviction, fairness, and a genuine desire to improve people’s lives, not from power or ego.
The core responsibilities of someone elected to public office are to represent the people faithfully, uphold the Constitution, and make decisions that improve the lives of their constituents. That means listening to the community, being transparent about actions and votes, and ensuring government remains accountable to the people—not special interests. An elected official must protect public resources, safeguard individual rights and freedoms, and advance policies that promote opportunity, fairness, and security for all. Above all, they must lead with honesty, empathy, and courage—always remembering that the office belongs to the people, not the person who holds it.
In Idaho, I believe the governor’s most important responsibility is to protect and strengthen the everyday lives of Idahoans—especially by defending our public education system, managing our natural resources wisely, and ensuring government remains accountable to the people. Idaho’s governor must lead with fiscal responsibility while investing in the future—our schools, infrastructure, and workforce. Safeguarding our clean water, public lands, and rural communities is essential to preserving our way of life. Above all, the governor must listen to Idahoans, stand up to powerful interests, and make decisions rooted in fairness, transparency, and the long-term well-being of our state.
First and foremost, the governor is the protector of the freedoms of every Idahoan, not just a select few. I believe the governor should play an active and transparent role in Idaho’s budgeting process—providing leadership, accountability, and a clear vision for how our tax dollars serve the people. The governor should set priorities that reflect Idaho’s real needs—strong public schools, affordable housing, accessible health care, and a healthy economy—while maintaining fiscal discipline and avoiding waste. However, that power must be balanced by collaboration with the legislature and open input from citizens. Budgets are moral documents; they reveal what we value. The governor’s job is to ensure Idaho’s budget reflects fairness, responsibility, and investment in the future—not political favoritism or short-term gain.
It is not the role of the executive branch, specifically the office of the governor, to legislate. We have co-equal branches of government in Idaho. However, if granted line-item veto power in Idaho, I would use it sparingly and responsibly—as a tool to protect taxpayers, ensure fiscal integrity, and prevent wasteful or politically motivated spending. The goal should never be to punish legislators or score political points, but to uphold transparency and accountability in how every dollar is spent. I would carefully review each budget item to ensure it truly serves Idahoans—improving schools, infrastructure, health care, and local communities—rather than benefiting special interests. When used wisely, the line-item veto is not about exerting power; it’s about safeguarding public trust and ensuring government works for the people, not against them.
The governor has the duty and responsibility to represent each and every Idahoan so that comes with a huge responsibility to ensure that the state legislature is operating for the interests of all Idahoans, not just a select few. The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one of mutual respect, collaboration, and accountability. Both branches share the same duty—to serve the people of Idaho—and should work together toward common goals, even when they disagree. The governor should lead with transparency and honesty, keeping open lines of communication and seeking bipartisan solutions that put Idahoans first. At the same time, the legislature should hold the governor accountable while respecting the executive’s role in implementing laws and managing the state. Healthy tension is natural, but cooperation grounded in integrity and shared purpose is what truly moves Idaho forward. But, if the legislature forgets its responsibilities to Idahoans, and puts them at risk any any way, I would have no problem using my veto power to ensure the safety, security, and health of everyone in the state.
I love Idaho because it represents the very heart of what makes America strong, free, and full of promise. It’s a place where people still believe in hard work, personal responsibility, and helping their neighbors. Our communities are tight-knit, our landscapes are breathtaking, and our values run deep. From the rolling wheat fields of the Palouse to the peaks of the Sawtooths, Idaho offers a quality of life that balances opportunity, independence, and natural beauty . We value our public lands.
What sets Idaho apart is its people. Idahoans are practical, grounded, and proud of the lives they’ve built. We value freedom—not just in words, but in how we live. Whether you’re running a small business, working the land, or raising a family, you can count on the respect and support of your community. Our small towns still gather as communities and our cities are growing without losing that spirit of neighborliness. Idaho is a place where a handshake still means something, where folks show up for one another in times of need, and where common sense still guides everyday life.
Economically, Idaho offers stability and promise. We have one of the strongest job markets in the country, fueled by small businesses, agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. Our cost of living remains lower than many states, and our natural resources—our land, water, and energy—provide both opportunity and responsibility. Idaho’s government, when it works as it should, reflects our values: local control, limited bureaucracy, and respect for personal liberty.
Idaho is more than a place on the map; it’s a state of mind—strong, free, and fiercely independent. Idaho faces several pressing challenges over the next decade that will shape the state’s future. One of the most urgent is the erosion of fundamental freedoms, including threats to reproductive rights, privacy, and access to unbiased education. Policies driven by ideological agendas—such as the rise of Christian nationalism—risk undermining the separation of church and state, marginalizing diverse communities, and restricting the freedoms that have long defined Idaho’s character.
Economic inequality and the affordability of housing and healthcare also loom large. While Idaho’s economy has grown, many families struggle to keep up with rising costs, and rural communities often face limited access to essential services. Public education faces pressures from underfunding and politicization, threatening the quality and fairness of schooling for the next generation.
Environmental challenges, including wildfire risk, water management, and the preservation of public lands, will demand careful leadership to ensure sustainable growth. Additionally, political polarization threatens constructive governance, making it harder to solve problems collaboratively.
Addressing these challenges will require leaders committed to protecting individual liberties, promoting economic opportunity, and preserving Idaho’s natural and cultural heritage. Maintaining an open, inclusive, and transparent government is essential to ensuring Idaho remains a place where freedom, fairness, and opportunity are available to all. The governor of Idaho should be able to use emergency powers only in situations where immediate action is necessary to protect public safety, health, and critical infrastructure—such as natural disasters, wildfires, floods, severe weather events, or public health crises. These powers should be narrowly defined, time-limited, and focused on responding effectively to threats, not bypassing normal legislative processes or infringing on individual rights.
Emergency powers should never be used to target or suppress citizens for their beliefs, political views, or lawful actions. The governor’s authority should complement, not replace, the rule of law, ensuring that the state can act swiftly in a crisis while maintaining transparency, accountability, and respect for constitutional rights. Any deployment of resources, including the National Guard, should be for protection, relief, and public order—not to intimidate or control the population.
In short, emergency powers exist to protect people and property during extraordinary circumstances—not to expand government authority or suppress fundamental freedoms. Clear guidelines, oversight, and communication with the legislature and the public are essential to ensure these powers are used responsibly and only when truly necessary. ChatGPT said:
I support making the ballot initiative process easier and more accessible for Idahoans. Direct democracy is a vital tool for letting citizens have a real voice in shaping state policy, and too many Idahoans are currently discouraged from participating because of unnecessary hurdles or complicated requirements. Changes I would consider include simplifying signature collection, lowering barriers for grassroots organizations, and providing clearer guidance and resources so voters can engage confidently. At the same time, safeguards should remain to ensure initiatives are transparent, legal, and in the public interest. The goal is a process that empowers everyday Idahoans, not special interests, to have a meaningful say in the laws that affect their lives.
To me, being the top executive authority means being entrusted with the highest responsibility to serve, protect, and lead the people of the state. A governor sets the tone for how government operates—honestly, efficiently, and with compassion. It means making tough decisions guided by principle, not politics, and ensuring that every agency and program works for the people, not against them. The governor must uphold the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, and respond swiftly in times of crisis. Most of all, it means leading by example—bringing people together, solving problems, and never forgetting that power is a public trust, not a personal privilege.
I am most proud of raising two amazing children while building and running my own business. Balancing the responsibilities of parenthood with the challenges of entrepreneurship has taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of leading by example. Watching my children grow into thoughtful, capable, and compassionate individuals has been the most rewarding accomplishment of my life. At the same time, creating and sustaining a successful business has allowed me to contribute to my community, provide opportunities for others, and demonstrate the value of hard work, integrity, and perseverance. These experiences shape how I approach leadership—with dedication, empathy, and a commitment to building a better future for families and communities across Idaho.
I believe Idaho’s government should play a proactive but balanced role in the development and use of artificial intelligence. Its primary responsibility is to protect citizens—especially children—from harmful or exploitative AI applications, while safeguarding privacy and upholding fundamental rights. This means setting clear regulations for AI in schools, online platforms, and consumer products to ensure that personal data isn’t misused, and that children aren’t exposed to manipulative or unsafe content.
At the same time, Idaho should encourage responsible innovation and economic growth in AI, supporting businesses and researchers who develop technology ethically. Oversight should focus on transparency, accountability, and safety, not stifling innovation, so that AI serves the public good rather than undermining freedoms. Ultimately, government’s role is to ensure that technology enhances our lives without compromising our rights, values, or the safety of our communities.
As Governor of Idaho, I would prioritize legislation that enhances election accessibility, transparency, and security, ensuring that every eligible Idahoan can vote freely and confidently.
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.
2022
Terri Pickens completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Pickens' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Terri Pickens Manweiler is a fourth-generation Idahoan born and raised in Pocatello. She graduated from the University of Southern California and University of Idaho College of Law and became the founding partner in Pickens Law, P.A in 2008, where she is still practicing today. Terri, her husband, Mark, and her two children currently reside in Boise.
- Public education is critical for the success of Idaho's youth, and resultingly, the success of Idaho.
- Public lands in Idaho must be preserved for the use of all the people in Idaho, not sold off to a select few for private gain.
- Civil rights and freedoms of all Idahoans must be protected and preserved.
Idaho has shown great potential for economic growth. In order to sustain that growth, focusing on small business and fostering programs for businesses is crucial.
• A strong economy relies on quality education and a solid workforce
• Health care must be affordable and accessible to all Idahoans
• To succeed, businesses need a stable tax structure
• Small businesses must be able to compete to succeed
• Fair treatment of employees and paying a living wage are cornerstones to a successful economy
Until recently, the office of Lieutenant Governor in Idaho was a quiet, non-ubiquitous position to hold. That all changed in 2018 when Idaho elected a far-right extremist for the office who has done everything in her power to challenge and circumvent the power of the elected Governor. My goal is to restore the credibility and candor to the office of Lieutenant Governor.
I have always looked up to strong, intelligent women, starting with Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and then later Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Both taught me that I could be an attorney and go on to make a difference for all girls and women. Maya Angelou was also very impactful on me. I was mesmerized by her ability to put thoughts to paper so profoundly.
"American President" starring Michael Douglas stands out as correlative to my political philosophy. When challenged why the President was a member of the ACLU, his response was profound: "For the record, yes, I am a card-carrying member of the ACLU, but the more important question is "Why aren't you, Bob?" Now this is an organization whose sole purpose is to defend the Bill of Rights, so it naturally begs the question, why would a senator, his party's most powerful spokesman and a candidate for President, choose to reject upholding the constitution? " The President goes on to say: "America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You've gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say, "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours." You want to claim this land as the land of the free? Then the symbol of your country cannot just be a flag. The symbol also has to be one of its citizens exercising his right to burn that flag in protest. Now show me that, defend that, celebrate that in your classrooms."
I agree wholeheartedly. American politics, especially in present day, are not easy. In fact politics right now is highly polarized. But at the end of the day, after we put party politics aside, we have more in common than not.
The principles that are most important for an elected official are honesty, integrity, and empathy. Elected officials are public servants. Once elected, the public must be able to trust that their elected officials lead in an honest, compassionate manner, protecting all of the people they represent, not just those who cast ballots for them.
Educated in the law
Highly organized
Successful small business owner
Empathetic and compassionate
Honest
Skilled negotiator
The core responsibilities for the office of Lieutenant Governor are to support the Governor, use the influence of the office to protect and preserve Idaho's vast resources, and to ensure all Idahoans' voices are being heard at the legislative level.
I would like to restore the legitimacy and integrity in Idaho politics. My goal is to bring back the balance in Idaho that once existed in politics and government.
I vividly remember the Challis/Mackey earthquake on October 28, 1983, that registered a 7.3 on the Richter scale. I was eleven years old at the time and I remember sitting on my bed watching the water in my fish tank swoosh over the edges. That was my first experience in an earthquake and I can recall that moment as if it were yesterday. When I was a senior in college, that moment came back to me as I was shaken from my sleep in Northridge earthquake in Los Angeles on January 17, 1994. Nothing can prepare you for the unknown of an earthquake, that feeling of having no control or understanding of what is happening and when it will end.
I started my very first job at age fifteen as a checkout clerk at the Shopko in Pocatello, Idaho, where I worked until I graduated from high school and left for college.
Perhaps not my favorite as I prefer to read fiction, but the book that had the most impact on me was "The Secret". Learning the power of positive thinking changed my life, made me realize that you could manifest your own successes through the law of attraction. Too often people hold themselves back with the notion that "I can't". When you modify your thinking to "I can" you are better able to control your own outcomes.
"Satisfaction" by the Rolling Stones.
Life has been on struggle after another. Growing up in a low income family in Eastern Idaho did not provide any real head start. I had to work hard to obtain my education and even harder to advance in my career. So many people face the same struggles of getting ahead. That is why public education is so critical for the advancement of Idaho's youth. Access to education should not just be for those who can afford it, but to all those who want to advance their education.
It is critical to be engaged with the current Governor while acting as Lieutenant Governor to ensure the people of Idaho have a sense of stability. Working with, rather than against, the Governor will restore the legitimacy of the office.
The Lieutenant Governor presides over the Idaho State Senate. That role comes with the power of the pulpit, providing a voice for all Idahoans at the legislative level. The Lieutenant Governor also cooperates with all state and local governmental agencies to promote and encourage the orderly development of the resources of Idaho. The Lieutenant Governor also appoints two members of the State Senate to the Multistate Tax Compact.
It is not imperative that the Lieutenant Governor have previous experience in government or politics so long as the office holder has an extensive understanding of how the governmental agencies work, how the laws should be executed, and how each independent branch of government operates.
As an attorney with over twenty years of experience applying the law in practice, I have developed a wide understanding of the function of the executive branch of government. I am a leader, a small business owner, and a successful litigator. Maintaining a practice for two decades reflects my organizational skills and ability to adapt to changing circumstances. My educational background and career and life experience make me eminently qualified to be Idaho's next Lieutenant Governor.
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 website
Manweiler's campaign website stated the following:
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Here are some of the issues I am dedicated to:
Economic Growth
Idaho has shown great potential for growth. In order to sustain that growth, focusing on small business and fostering programs for businesses is crucial.
- A strong economy relies on quality education and a solid workforce
- Health care must be affordable and accessible to all Idahoans
- To succeed, businesses need a stable tax structure
- Small businesses must be able to compete to succeed
- Fair treatment of employees and paying a living wage is critical
Public Education
The Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution requires equal protection under the laws, so when a state provides public education, it must provide equal access to a quality education to all citizens.
- Better funding for education in Idaho
- Higher teacher salaries to maintain high quality teachers
- Funding rural school districts
- Funding for Pre-K programs across Idaho
- Funding for full time kindergarten
- Funding for post high school programs, community college, and universities
- Access to broadband for all schools and students
- Access to information based on science, truth, and history
Public Lands
With influence over the Idaho Land Board, the Lieutenant Governor is charged with the very important task of protecting and preserving our great public lands with the state of Idaho.
- Public lands must stay in the hands of the public, not privatized
- The wilderness and recreational areas, public lands, rivers, and wildlife define Idaho
- Preserving open space and natural resources is a top priority
- I will fight to maintain access to public lands for recreation, hunting, fishing
- We must protect our Idaho heritage for future generations
Civil Rights
I believe in protecting civil rights and I will be a champion for citizens, ensuring that all of their rights are protected and every person is entitled to equal justice under the law. When we protect our civil rights, we are protecting our freedoms.
- Freedom of speech
- Freedom of privacy
- Freedom of choice and bodily autonomy
- Freedom of and from religion
- Freedom to love and marry whomever we choose
- Freedom from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin[3]
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| —Terri Pickens Manweiler's campaign website (2022)[4]
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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.
See also
External links
