Idaho Democrats announce the death of former Pocatello legislator Elaine Smith

POCATELLO (Idaho Capital Sun) — The Idaho Democratic Party announced in a press release Friday that former state Rep. Elaine Smith has died.

Smith, who was born in Gooding and lived in Pocatello, represented Legislative District 29 in eastern Idaho for 10 terms and served as the Idaho House’s minority caucus chairwoman. She retired from the Legislature in 2020. No cause of death was given.

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“Her extraordinary dedication to her community and state was evident in everything she did, from nearly two decades as a state lawmaker to her long career supporting education and building partnerships in Pocatello,” Idaho Democratic Party Chairwoman Lauren Necochea said in the press release.

Necochea said Smith was a compassionate listener who worked hard for her constituents.

“Her leadership as House minority caucus chairwoman was marked by wisdom and grace, and her advocacy for education, public lands, and working families left a lasting impact on Idaho,” Necochea said. “From advancing concussion protocols in school sports to protecting children left in hot vehicles, Elaine championed the vulnerable and tirelessly advocated for common-sense solutions.”

Smith worked on bipartisan solutions on Idaho’s issues, Necochea said.

“Her service was grounded in her belief that bipartisanship and cooperation could move Idaho forward,” Necochea said. “Elaine reminded us of the importance of building bridges and working together, even in a deeply divided political climate. Her strength of character and focus on what was best for Idaho will remain an inspiration to all of us.”

Necochea said she, and the Idaho Democratic Party, offered their condolences and prayers for Smith’s family and friends.

State Sen. James Ruchti, who is also from Pocatello and represents District 29, also offered a statement on Smith’s death.

“Elaine cared about her constituents,” he said in the press release. “Each session, Pocatellans travel to Boise to lobby the Legislature on important issues. No matter how busy or tired she was, Elaine would make time for them.”

Smith graduated from Meridian High School and received her bachelor’s degree from Idaho State University, according to the Idaho legislative directory. She was a member of the Methodist church and belonged to many local organizations throughout her life, including the Pocatello Chamber of Commerce, American Legion Auxiliary, Southeast Idaho Retired Educators and the NAACP, the directory said.