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Democrat

Steve Berch

Steve Berch candidate photo

Idaho House of Representatives, District 15 Seat A

Steve Berch: Idaho Democratic Incumbent for House District 15A

Steve Berch is a Democratic member of the Idaho House of Representatives serving District 15A, which covers portions of Ada County in southwest Idaho. Berch assumed office in December 2018. He is running for re-election in the May 19, 2026 general election.

Background

Steve Berch was born in New York and moved to Idaho, according to his campaign website. He holds a degree in business and has worked in technology and business consulting. He is a small business owner and has been active in civic and community organizations in the Boise area. He and his wife have children in the area.

Political Career

Berch was first elected to the Idaho House in 2018, representing District 15A. He was re-elected in 2020, 2022, and 2024. In the legislature, Berch has served on the House Commerce and Human Resources Committee and the House Business Committee. He has been one of the most active Democratic voices in the Idaho House, frequently offering amendments to Republican bills and speaking against measures he characterizes as harmful to working families, small businesses, and civil rights. He has championed campaign finance disclosure legislation and has been an outspoken critic of what he characterizes as dark money in Idaho politics.

Policy Positions

According to his campaign website and public statements, Berch's key positions include:

  • Campaign Finance Reform: Has been a leading advocate for campaign finance transparency in Idaho, supporting legislation requiring disclosure of dark money contributions to political campaigns.
  • Small Business: Supports policies promoting small business growth and opposing what he characterizes as corporate favoritism.
  • Healthcare: Supports expanding access to affordable healthcare, including Medicaid expansion, and opposes restrictions on reproductive healthcare.
  • Education: Advocates for increased public education funding and opposes diversion of public school funds to private school vouchers.
  • Civil Rights: Supports LGBTQ+ rights and has opposed legislation restricting rights of transgender people.

Profile published by IdahoVoters.com. Last updated May 7, 2026. This profile will be updated as additional information becomes available.

News Stories

District 15 House hopefuls differ on private school choice, facilities law

news · Idaho Ed News · Kevin Richert · 20241014

Three-term state Rep. Steve Berch describes himself as a critical legislative thinker, applying long-term analytical skills honed during three decades at Hewlett Packard. With a background in the banking and health care sectors — and now a position with the state — challenger Annette Tipton says she wants to emphasize fiscal transparency and accountability.