Why It Matters
A contested Republican primary in southeast Idaho has split the state’s top elected officials. Five constitutional officers are backing the incumbent senator, while Attorney General Raúl Labrador has endorsed the challenger. The race will test whether voters in District 28 prefer establishment Republicans or more hardline conservative candidates.
The primary election takes place on May 19.
What Happened
Governor Brad Little, Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke, Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, and Controller Brandon Woolf announced their support for Senator Jim Guthrie on Tuesday. The Republican lawmaker represents District 28, covering Power County and parts of rural Bannock County.
Guthrie faces a primary challenge from David Worley, an Idaho National Guard officer who describes Christian morality as the foundation of Western Civilization. Labrador endorsed Worley in early April, saying the challenger would bring integrity and common sense to the Senate.
In a paid news release from the Guthrie campaign, the five constitutional officers praised his record on fiscal responsibility, agriculture, public safety, and rural communities. Little called Guthrie strong and dependable leadership for the Idaho Senate.
Critchfield highlighted education funding. She said public education fuels the state’s economy and that Guthrie understands the need to invest in students to build tomorrow’s workforce.
By The Numbers
Guthrie was first elected to the Senate in 2010. He currently chairs the Senate State Affairs Committee. Worley filed a religious discrimination lawsuit against Little and the Idaho National Guard in 2024. A federal judge dismissed the case.
Guthrie was the only Senate Republican to vote against a transgender bathroom measure this session. He also voted against a $50 million parental choice tax credit program last year.
District 28 voters will decide the race on May 19.
Zoom Out
The primary reflects a broader pattern in Idaho Republican politics. Establishment figures and business-aligned conservatives often clash with candidates backed by activists who prioritize social issues and limited government.
Labrador has positioned himself as a leader of the more conservative wing of the party since taking office as attorney general. His endorsement of Worley signals that the challenger represents that faction’s priorities.
The five constitutional officers backing Guthrie represent a more traditional Republican coalition focused on economic growth, education funding, and rural development.
What’s Next
Voters in District 28 will cast ballots in two weeks. Sample ballots and voter information are available at VoteIdaho.gov.
The winner of the Republican primary will face little opposition in the general election. District 28 is a heavily Republican area where the primary typically determines the outcome.
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