Recently, the Ada County Democrats hosted the annual Gracie Pfost Gala. The event is named after Gracie Pfost who was the first woman to represent Idaho in Congress. The Ada County Democrats use the event as a fundraiser for election campaigns. Keynote speaker at the event was Marc Racicot, former Governor and Attorney General of Montana. Much of the speakers’ messaging centered on freedom of speech and the 2026 midterm elections.
Various Idaho Democratic figures attended the event such as Walt Minnick, the last Democrat to represent Idaho in Congress. One guest speaker was attorney Terri Pickens who is running in the Idaho Governor’s race in 2026. Pickens’ speech focused on standing up to President Donald Trump. “We live in a dangerous time in this country. We have dark days ahead. We must come together as a community” Pickens said.
Ada County Democrats Chairman, Jared DeLoof, began the speaking portion of the gala by mentioning different events and issues. “Ada County made national news when a teacher was suspended for a message of unity.” DeLoof said, referring to the “Everyone Is Welcome Here” that put a West Ada teacher under fire, according to KTVB. Making a point about freedom of speech being restricted.
Another speaker was Eric Myricks who is running for mayor of Nampa this year. Myricks’ speech echoed anti-Trump sentiments. “I have no problem speaking truth to power.” Later, Myricks said, “We do not linger in yesterday. We are meant to move forward, to keep growing. That’s where my heart is.”
A lot of the messaging the guest speakers made looked forward to the midterm elections in 2026. In the midterm elections, congressional seats and many other public offices are up for reelection on the state and national levels. Idaho’s two congressional seats are up for reelection as well as Senator Jim Risch’s seat. The midterm elections have the ability to swing the control of state legislatures as well as the US Congress.
