Five of Idaho’s constitutional officers on Tuesday endorsed Sen. Jim Guthrie for re-election, one month after Attorney General Raúl Labrador endorsed his opponent.
Gov. Brad Little, Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield, Secretary of State Phil McGrane and Controller Brandon Woolf have united behind Guthrie.
Guthrie faces a primary election in two weeks against challenger David Worley, an Idaho National Guard officer and hardline conservative who believes that Christian morality is the “foundation of Western Civilization.” Worley last year filed a religious discrimination lawsuit against Little and the Idaho National Guard. A federal judge dismissed the suit.
Click here to read Worley’s lawsuit and here to read the judge’s order to dismiss.
In a news release paid for by Guthrie’s campaign, the five constitutional officers said Guthrie has a record of “conservative, common-sense leadership” and has championed fiscal responsibility, agriculture, public safety and rural communities. Guthrie represents District 28, which includes Power County and parts of rural Bannock County.
“This election is an opportunity to keep strong, dependable leadership in the Idaho Senate, and that means supporting Sen. Jim Guthrie,” Little stated.
Critchfield said Idaho needs Guthrie’s leadership.
“Jim understands a fundamental truth: public education is the fuel for Idaho’s economy,” Critchfield stated. “By investing in our students today, he is building the skilled workforce our businesses need for tomorrow.”
Labrador endorsed Worley in early April. In a news release, Labrador said Worley will fight for Idaho families, support border security and hold government accountable.
“Voters are tired of politicians who campaign one way at home and govern another when they are in Boise,” Labrador stated. “David is different. He’ll bring integrity, courage, and common sense to the Senate.”
Guthrie, R-McCammon, was first elected in 2010 and chairs the Senate State Affairs Committee. He voted against the $50 million Parental Choice Tax Credit last year and was the only Senate Republican to oppose the transgender bathroom bill this session.
In his campaign’s news release, Guthrie said he is humbled and grateful for the five endorsements.
“These are leaders I have had the privilege of working alongside to deliver real results for Idaho — lower taxes, less government overreach, stronger support for our law enforcement, and policies that respect the values of hardworking families,” Guthrie stated. “But at the end of the day, this campaign isn’t about endorsements — it’s about the people of District 28.”
Election Day is May 19. Find voter information and sample ballots at VoteIdaho.gov. Explore EdNews’ election coverage here.
