Megan Blanksma


Megan C. Blanksma is an American politician who served as a member of the Idaho House of Representatives from District 8 in seat B. A member of the Republican Party, she served as the majority leader in the House of Representatives from 2022 to February 8, 2024, when she was removed due to disagreements within the Republican caucus.

Early life and education

Blanksma was born and raised in Nampa. She graduated from Nampa High School and served as a legislative page in the Idaho Senate during her senior year. Later, she earned a Bachelor of Science in economics from the University of Idaho.

Career

From 2014 to 2016, Blanksma served as Chair of the Elmore County Republican Party, after many years as a volunteer in many capacities at the county and state level. She also serves on the St. Luke's Elmore Community Board.

Idaho House of Representatives

Blanksma challenged 14-year incumbent Pete Nielsen in the Republican primary in 2016. She was endorsed by Governor Butch Otter. After securing the nomination, Blanksma faced only independent and third party opposition in the general election and was elected to the seat.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Blanksma criticized the Idaho Central District Health for endorsing a statement by Lauren McLean, the Democratic mayor of Boise, who supported Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance regarding masking and vaccines.

Committee assignments

  • Heath and Welfare Committee
  • Local Government Committee
  • Resources and Conservation Committee

Personal life

Blanksma and her husband, Jeff, live on a farm in Hammett, Idaho.

Elections

YearCandidateVotesPctCandidateVotesPctCandidateVotesPct
2022 Primary6,995100%-
2022 General12,60483.6%2,48216.5%