Petition Urges Rubel’s Resignation
Idaho House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel (D–Boise) is facing pressure to resign from her leadership role after a recent trip to Israel drew criticism from local groups.
A letter signed by more than 150 Idahoans — including youth political leaders, human rights advocates, and local candidates — was delivered Friday, urging Rubel to step aside and reconsider her plans to seek reelection in 2026.
The petition described her participation in the “50 States, One Israel” conference as “Israeli-funded propaganda” and claimed her attendance “deeply violated our values not just as Democrats but as Americans.”
Details of the Trip
Rubel traveled alongside four Idaho Republicans — Representatives Bruce Skaug (Nampa), Josh Tanner (Eagle), Barbara Ehardt (Idaho Falls), and John Shirts (Weiser). They joined more than 200 state legislators from both parties at the event, which featured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog.
Critics noted that the conference did not include Palestinian speakers or visits to Palestinian territories.
Rubel’s Response
In a Facebook post, Rubel defended her decision to attend, saying she sought to “gain a deeper understanding of this conflict.” She added that she directly questioned Israeli President Herzog about civilian casualties in Gaza.
“Listening and asking questions isn’t a sign of agreement — it’s a way to build understanding,” Rubel wrote.
Republican Lawmakers Express Support
Representative John Shirts said the trip strengthened Idaho’s ties with one of America’s closest allies.
“I am a strong supporter of Israel and its fight against terrorism,” Shirts said in a statement. “I was grateful for the opportunity to see firsthand the challenges Israel and the region are facing and to strengthen relationships with a longtime ally of our country.”
Political Fallout
The letter from petitioners reflects a divide within Rubel’s own party base, where some activists oppose U.S. leaders showing support for Israel during the ongoing conflict. Calls for her resignation highlight growing tension among Idaho Democrats over foreign policy positions.
Meanwhile, Republican attendees emphasized solidarity with Israel and framed the trip as an opportunity to support a key American ally in a region facing ongoing instability.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
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