Two Republicans are vying for the Idaho House District 35A seat in the May 19 primary election, with first-term incumbent Mike Veile facing a challenge from Chad Christensen, who previously served two terms in the Legislature.
Veile was appointed to the position by Governor Brad Little in 2025 after Kevin Andrus vacated the seat to become state director of the U.S. Farm Service Agency. Christensen served in the Idaho House before losing his seat in 2022.
Candidate Backgrounds
Mike Veile grew up in Rexburg and earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering from Utah State University. He has lived in Soda Springs for 28 years and previously worked in heavy industry, including elemental phosphorus production. He now operates his own engineering firm.
Veile has served on several state boards and task forces related to fish and wildlife resources, including the Idaho Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Idaho Landowner-Sportsman Advisory Council. He also served on the Soda Springs School Board.
Chad Christensen is an Idaho Falls native who served 12 years in the U.S. Army and worked in law enforcement as a county probation officer, state felony parole officer, welfare fraud investigator, and military police investigator. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Idaho State University.
Christensen currently works as a crane operator and real estate agent. He previously represented constituents in the Idaho Legislature for two terms before his 2022 defeat.
Veile’s Platform
The incumbent representative said he is seeking to continue in office because of his interest in public service and his desire to influence policy issues. His professional work previously gave him extended time in Boise observing the Legislature, which strengthened his commitment to serve.
Veile outlined a platform centered on four priorities, beginning with support for public education. He said Idaho schools need flexibility, local control, and freedom to innovate without excessive regulatory burdens.
Primary Election Details
District 35A encompasses parts of Bonneville County and surrounding areas in eastern Idaho. The Republican primary will determine who represents the district in the general election.
Early voting is currently underway at county election offices across the district. Election Day is May 19, with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Both candidates provided responses to questions from East Idaho Elects about their backgrounds and positions on key issues.
What Comes Next
The winner of the May 19 Republican primary will advance to the November general election. District 35A is considered a safe Republican seat, making the primary contest the decisive race for the position.
Voters can find their polling locations and registration information through the Idaho Secretary of State’s website or by contacting their county clerk’s office.