“IDAHO STEPS UP” – Governor Brad Little’s recent announcement that Idaho is assisting the Trump administration in transporting illegal immigrants with criminal histories to ICE facilities for deportation has drawn national attention. “Idaho is stepping up to help the Trump administration transport illegal immigrants with criminal histories out of our jails and to ICE facilities, where they will be deported out of our country,” Little declared, reinforcing his tough-on-immigration stance.

Now, former President Donald Trump has thrown his weight behind Little’s potential reelection bid—nearly a year before the Republican primary and before the governor has even announced his plans. In a Truth Social post, Trump praised Little as a “strong and highly popular Governor” who “WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!”

Why this Endorsement Matters

a 71-year-old Emmett rancher, has not yet confirmed whether he will seek reelection in 2026. However, the governor quickly thanked Trump on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “It is an honor to have the support of President @realDonaldTrump. Idaho will continue leading the fight to Make America Great Again!”

The endorsement comes after multiple meetings between Little and Trump this year, including a visit to Mar-a-Lago in January, just before Trump’s second-term inauguration. The two have maintained a close relationship, contrasting sharply with Little’s strained dealings with the Biden administration.

A 2028 Presidential Dark Horse?

Little checks a lot of boxes, executive experience, border security credentials, and deep red-state appeal. If Trump sees him as a potential successor or VP in 2028, this is how you build momentum.

Little’s recent immigration enforcement push, combined with his conservative record on taxes, deregulation, and states’ rights, makes him a natural fit for Trump’s populist base. His frequent trips to D.C. and high-profile meetings with Trump suggest he’s staying in the former president’s good graces.

What’s Next for Little?

If Little does run and wins a third term, he’ll be term-limited in 2030, potentially freeing him up for a national campaign in 2028. His ability to balance Idaho’s libertarian-leaning politics with Trump’s populist base could make him an appealing figure in a post-Trump GOP.

With Trump’s endorsement in his pocket and growing speculation about his future, Brad Little may soon find himself on a much bigger stage.