Senate Education committee hears David Turnbull on governor’s nomination to State Board; vote postponed

The Senate Education Committee heard from David Turnbull of Eagle on Oct. 25, 2025, regarding his nomination by the governor to the Idaho State Board of Education; the committee did not vote and indicated a decision will come at a future meeting.

Turnbull told senators he is a native of Idaho, described a 34-year residency in the Treasure Valley, and said he has raised four children in the West Ada School District. He said he operates a real estate development firm, which he identified as Bridal Corporation, and that his work has involved frequent interactions with local school districts on facilities, site locations and related issues.

Asked to describe his perspective on public education, Turnbull said he reflected for months before accepting the governor’s request to be nominated and sought to ensure he could contribute meaningfully to the board. "When I was asked by the governor to consider this position on the state board, I had to reflect on it for a couple of months and think about what I might add to the state board," Turnbull said. He told senators he views educators like Heidi Cornell as examples of leadership and risk-taking that the board should encourage.

The committee chair said committee members will vote on Turnbull’s appointment at a future date. Turnbull thanked senators for meeting with him individually to discuss their priorities.

No formal motion or vote was recorded during the hearing; the committee recorded the hearing as committee consideration of the gubernatorial appointment and postponed a vote.