ELECTION 2026 Coverage: Local News 8 is highlighting some of the most competitive, talked-about Legislative races in the region during the final run-up to the May 19 primary election.
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – With the primary election right around the corner, one repeat matchup is heating up in Idaho Falls.
Long-time GOP advocate Jilene Burger is challenging incumbent Marco Erickson for Legislative District 33 Seat B in Idaho Falls.
Erickson currently serves as vice chairman of the Idaho House Health and Welfare Committee. Burger previously served as chairwoman of the Legislative District 33 Republican Committee.
Marco Erickson: “We have a couple of different factions that we’re voting for. If you want the right wing extremism in Idaho, you’re going to get that. Or you could just have someone that’s doing what he’s been doing in the moderate sector.”
Jilene Burger: “I believe in the Republican platform. I’d stick with it. I would hope to have a 100% record of voting with the platform and not 64.1% with the Democratic platform.”
Burger wants to repeal all property taxes, while Erickson argues he has already supported billions in tax cuts during his tenure.
Jilene Burger: “Being the voice of the taxpayer, I’m on their side. Most people are not aware of the fact that the Communist Manifesto’s very first plank on their platform is to not have private property. And to have property tax. I don’t believe we should ever tax property, so let’s get rid of it.”
Marco Erickson: “I’m the true voice of you as the taxpayers. I’ve cut taxes for six years in a row, multiple billions of dollars. But I’ve also done a good job making sure Idaho performs well and being a part of a good team there. I’m in leadership for a reason. That means my colleagues and the leadership in the Statehouse believe in me.”
Watch our full, in-depth interviews below for more on their views about social issues, Medicaid expansion, and immigration.
Marco Erickson election interview.
Jilene Burger election interview.
