Mike Pohanka's Priorities for District 26

Mike Pohanka is putting Idaho first—rooted in the same American Dream that brought his immigrant parents to this country and shaped his life of hard work, service, and gratitude. From picking rocks on the family farm in Twin Falls to building a 30-year career at Idaho Power, teaching economics at the College of Southern Idaho for 23 years, raising a family of 10 grandchildren with his wife Susan, and serving as a reserve deputy and Idaho State Police chaplain, Mike has lived the values of strong faith, strong families, and strong communities.

These are not just campaign slogans. They are the foundation of everything Mike fights for in the Idaho Legislature.

World-Class Education

Empowering parents, supporting teachers, and keeping Idaho classrooms free from political agendas.

Mike taught economics and management at the College of Southern Idaho for over two decades. He saw firsthand how a solid, practical education can transform lives—just as it did for him after starting at community college and working his way through higher education. He believes parents, not bureaucrats or special interests, should have the strongest voice in their children’s schooling. Mike will continue working to support great teachers, prioritize fundamentals over ideology, and ensure every student in the Magic Valley has the tools to compete and succeed in the real world.

Secure Water Rights

Protecting Idaho’s most vital resource for our farms, families, and future.

Water is life in Idaho, and Mike grew up understanding this truth on the family farm. His father, a plant geneticist who developed new bean varieties that strengthened Idaho agriculture, taught him that resources must be managed wisely—not wasted or politicized. As a lifelong Magic Valley resident and farmer’s son, Mike is committed to defending secure water rights, promoting strategic planning that balances agriculture, residential needs, recreation, and industry, and fighting any efforts that threaten the backbone of our local economy.

Public Safety

Standing firmly with law enforcement and maintaining zero tolerance for drugs and crime in our communities.

Mike has walked the walk. He served as a reserve deputy sheriff in Jerome County and currently serves as a chaplain for the Idaho State Police, supporting the men and women who put their lives on the line every day. He believes law enforcement deserves our full backing, not defunding or second-guessing. Mike will continue pushing for strong penalties on drugs and crime, better resources for first responders, and policies that keep our neighborhoods safe for families and children.

Local Collaboration

Strong communication and an open-door policy with citizens and community leaders to solve problems together.

Mike has never been a career politician—he’s a neighbor who has spent decades giving back through Little League coaching, Rotary Club service, teaching, and quiet community support. He believes real solutions come from listening first. That’s why he maintains an open-door approach: regular communication with local leaders, businesses, farmers, and families across District 26. Mike is committed to working collaboratively, not from Boise in isolation, but as your partner on the ground.

Transportation Investment

Ensuring District 26 and the Magic Valley receive equitable transportation funding.

After 30 years at Idaho Power—working across rural and urban infrastructure needs—Mike knows how critical safe, well-maintained roads, bridges, and transportation systems are to families, farmers, and businesses. Now serving on the Transportation & Defense Committee, he is fighting for fair funding so our district isn’t overlooked. Mike believes local roads and infrastructure investments should reflect the real needs of Jerome, Lincoln, and Blaine counties, not just population centers.