The 2026 Idaho GOP State Convention opened Thursday at Capital Church in Meridian, kicking off a two-day gathering where the state’s Republican Party will conduct its core business ahead of the November elections.

Convention Business

The convention runs through Saturday and draws registered Republicans from across Idaho to weigh in on the party’s direction. Attendees will consider resolutions, vote on a new platform, and elect officers to lead the state party going forward. Registration carries a $25 fee.

GOP Chairwoman Dorothy Moon described the event as “a chance to celebrate Republican candidates, consider resolutions, adopt a platform, and elect officers to lead the property for the next term.”

The convention comes at an active moment in Idaho Republican politics. Gov. Brad Little has led all statewide candidates in campaign fundraising heading into the 2026 cycle, and a range of GOP officeholders are seeking reelection or higher office. Intraparty dynamics — including ongoing tension between the party’s establishment and more conservative factions — are likely to surface in platform debates and officer elections.

Third Thursday Returns to Nampa

Also on Thursday evening, downtown Nampa hosts its monthly Third Thursday street event, this month themed “Hello Summer.” The free event runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and features live music, local food trucks, a mechanical surfboard, and a designated open-container street area.

Third Thursday is a recurring community event that draws residents to Nampa’s downtown corridor and supports local businesses. No admission is charged. Nampa sits in Canyon County, one of Idaho’s fastest-growing communities along the Treasure Valley corridor.

Boise Adds Second Bird-Safe Window Mural

In a separate local development, the city of Boise unveiled its second bird-safe window mural, this one installed at the Library! branch at Bown Crossing. The first mural of its kind went up at the Cole and Ustick location. Both murals were designed by a Boise State University graphic design student.

The initiative targets bird-window strikes, which researchers identify as one of the leading causes of bird deaths in the United States. Patterned or treated glass reduces the likelihood that birds mistake reflective windows for open sky.