On Saturday, March 8, State Central Committee members overwhelmingly reelected Lauren Necochea as Chair of the Idaho Democratic Party (IDP) on the first ballot, reaffirming her leadership at a pivotal moment for Idaho politics.

Under Necochea’s tenure, the Idaho Democratic Party (IDP) has achieved historic milestones, including establishing active party organizations in all 44 counties, recruiting a record number of candidates, and launching the most comprehensive coordinated campaign effort in state party history.

Following her reelection, Necochea reaffirmed her commitment to holding the Trump administration accountable, strengthening the Democratic Party, and fighting for Idaho’s working families.

“I’m honored to continue leading the Idaho Democratic Party at this critical moment. Idahoans are seeing the consequences of Republican leaders fully surrendering to Trump, pushing school vouchers, handing out tax breaks to the wealthy, and catering to the most extreme elements of their party,” said Idaho Democratic Party Lauren Necochea. “We warned about Project 2025, and now even Trump’s own voters are realizing the damage. The tide is turning. Democrats are on the front lines fighting to protect public schools, defend fundamental freedoms, and ensure government works for everyday people, not just the powerful few.”

About IDP Chair Lauren Necochea

Necochea first took the helm of the IDP in 2022, completing the term of the late Fred Cornforth, who stepped down after being diagnosed with glioblastoma.

Necochea spent over a decade leading nonprofit programs on tax policy, healthcare, and children’s issues. She played a key role in the Idahoans for Healthcare campaign, successfully expanding Medicaid access for thousands of Idahoans.

Before returning to Idaho, Necochea worked for the Baltimore City Health Department, overseeing programs to improve children’s health and safety. She holds a master’s in public affairs from Princeton University and a B.A. in economics from Pomona College. She was also awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to study microfinance in Peru.

State Central Committee members also voted to elect Hayden Paulsen as Treasurer.

About IDP Treasurer Hayden Paulsen

Paulsen was elected to the Pocatello City Council in 2023. A Pocatello native and Century High School graduate, he earned a master’s in strategy from Johns Hopkins University. Initially pursuing a career in the U.S. Foreign Service, he shifted his focus to local public service after the COVID-19 pandemic led him back to Idaho.

Motivated by the rise of extremism in Idaho politics, Paulsen became active in civic engagement, knocking on over 1,000 doors to connect with voters. His passion for his hometown led him to run for City Council, where he now champions city revitalization, transparency, expanded housing, and consideration for all residents. He is committed to making Pocatello a place where young people can build their futures.

Alongside Necochea and Paulsen, the following officers will continue serving until their terms expire in 2026:

• Secretary: Carol Richel (Eagle)

• First Vice Chair: Evan Koch (Spirit Lake)

• Second Vice Chair: Elle Casner (Boise)