Idaho Senate District 12 Candidate Q&A: May Primary Election

IDAHO — As part of Idaho News 6’s election coverage ahead of the May primary, candidates in the contested Idaho Senate District 12 race were invited to complete a written questionnaire about their candidacy, priorities, and approach to key issues facing voters.

Their responses are included below as submitted, with no edits except for length when necessary. Candidates who did not respond are noted as “did not respond.”

Candidates are listed alphabetically by political party, then by last name.

Republican —

• 1. What motivated you to run for this position?

  • Ben Adams (Incumbent)

    • Did not respond.

  • Shaun M. Simmons

    • The lack of affordable housing and the high cost of living were major motivating factors for me. I also became increasingly concerned by the performance of our legislature this last session, particularly the budget blunders and the political theater that seemed to take priority over real problem-solving. Out of 105 seats, only 5 chose not to seek reelection, which made me reflect on the need for meaningful change and new perspectives in leadership. At the last minute, I came to the realization that if we want different results, someone has to step forward and do things differently. I believe I can be part of that change. With that conviction, I submitted my candidacy near the end of the filing deadline to offer voters a practical, service-driven alternative focused on real issues and real accountability.

• 2. What experience has prepared you to serve?

  • Ben Adams (Incumbent)

    • Did not respond.

  • Shaun M. Simmons

    • My experience spans government, healthcare security, corrections, and nonprofit leadership. I’ve managed teams, responded to high-pressure situations, and worked directly with diverse and vulnerable populations. These roles have taught me how to lead, make difficult decisions, and stay accountable. I understand public safety, risk management, and organizational leadership. More importantly, I’ve been on the front lines—seeing firsthand how policies affect people. That perspective allows me to approach problems with both discipline and practical understanding.

• 3. What do you see as the most significant issue facing your constituents, and how do you plan to address it?

  • Ben Adams (Incumbent)

    • Did not respond.

  • Shaun M. Simmons

    • Affordability is one of the most pressing issues facing Idaho families. Housing costs, everyday expenses, and wages are out of balance, making it harder for people—especially young families—to stay and build a future here. If we don’t address this, we risk losing our workforce and long-term stability. I support responsible growth, policies that strengthen local economies, and efforts to increase housing availability. We need to ensure Idaho remains a place where hard work can still lead to opportunity.

• 4. If elected, what is the first policy you would seek to implement or change?

  • Ben Adams (Incumbent)

    • Did not respond.

  • Shaun M. Simmons

    • My first priority would be advancing policies that create real economic opportunity and lead to strong, financially stable Idaho families. That means supporting job growth, encouraging small business development, and ensuring people have access to opportunities that allow them to succeed without leaving our state. I would focus on reducing unnecessary barriers that hold back workers and entrepreneurs, while promoting responsible growth that benefits local communities. When families are financially stable, everything else improves—education, public safety, and overall quality of life. My goal is to help build an Idaho where hard work is rewarded and families can not only get by, but truly thrive.

• 5. How would you balance community needs with budget constraints, particularly during times of rising costs?

  • Ben Adams (Incumbent)

    • Did not respond.

  • Shaun M. Simmons

    • Balancing community needs with limited budgets requires discipline and prioritization. I would focus on funding essential services that directly impact people while identifying and cutting waste or inefficiency. Every dollar should have a clear purpose and measurable value. I also believe in long-term planning so we’re not constantly reacting to problems but preparing for them. Responsible budgeting isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing what matters most, effectively.

• 6. With multiple candidates on the ballot, why should voters choose you?

  • Ben Adams (Incumbent)

    • Did not respond.

  • Shaun M. Simmons

    • Voters should choose me if they want someone who is motivated for change, practical in their pursuit, and focused on results.
      I’m not accepting donations.
      I'm not seeking endorsements.
      I have no ties to special interests or the political establishment.
      I bring real-world experience, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to serving the people—not the system. This campaign is about putting Idahoans first, restoring trust in leadership, and building a future that works for everyone.

Looking for more candidate perspectives? Explore full Q&A responses from all contested races across southern Idaho here.