Legislators Attend Foreign-Sponsored Conference
BOISE — Five Idaho lawmakers participated in the 50 States, One Israel conference this month, a gathering of more than 250 state legislators from across the United States. The trip was organized and paid for by the Israeli government.
Those attending included:
- House Assistant Majority Leader Josh Tanner, R-Eagle
- House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, D-Boise
- House Local Government Committee Chair Barbara Ehardt, R-Idaho Falls
- House Judiciary Chair Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa
- Rep. John Shirts, R-Weiser
The event took place while Israel continued its military campaign in Gaza. A recent United Nations report accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians.
Public Backlash in Idaho
The trip has prompted significant criticism in Idaho. On Friday, the Idaho Young Democrats released a statement condemning Rubel for accepting travel sponsored by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The group argued her participation “sends the wrong message” given the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In addition, 157 Idaho Democrats signed a letter calling on Rubel to step down as House Minority Leader. The letter described the conference as “Israeli-funded propaganda” and highlighted civilian deaths in Gaza.
Republican participants also faced scrutiny, though Rubel drew the most attention because of her leadership position within the state Democratic Party.
Lawmakers Defend Participation
Rep. Skaug said he accepted the invitation because of his history of supporting legislation favorable to Israel, including co-sponsoring Idaho’s Anti-Boycott Against Israel Act in 2021. He described the trip as an opportunity to meet Israeli officials and other U.S. legislators, comparing it to trade missions that Idaho officials have taken to countries such as Taiwan or Mexico.
Rep. Shirts, a former federal prosecutor and current Air Force Reserve officer, defended his attendance, stating he is a strong supporter of Israel and its fight against terrorism.
Rubel, the lone Democrat on the trip, said she accepted the invitation to ask questions and raise concerns directly with Israeli leadership. She stated she did not use Idaho taxpayer funds and emphasized she did not view her visit as an endorsement of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
Domestic Debate Continues
The trip illustrates growing divisions within Idaho politics. Supporters frame the visit as a diplomatic opportunity, while critics say accepting foreign-sponsored travel undermines accountability and risks aligning Idaho lawmakers with controversial international policies.
With both parties divided and constituents calling for resignations, the controversy underscores the broader debate over how much role state legislators should have in foreign affairs when their primary responsibility lies in representing Idaho citizens.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
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