Attorney General Raúl Labrador threw his support behind David Worley, an Idaho National Guard major challenging incumbent Republican state Sen. Jim Guthrie in the May 19 primary election for District 28.

Labrador’s endorsement comes as Guthrie, who chairs the Senate State Affairs Committee, faces mounting criticism from conservative activists over his legislative approach during the current session.

Endorsement Cites Leadership Concerns

In announcing his backing, Labrador said Worley would deliver integrity and accountability in the Legislature.

“Voters are tired of politicians who campaign one way at home and govern another when they are in Boise,” Labrador stated in a news release. He called on District 28 Republicans to support Worley in the primary.

Worley previously sought a Senate seat in 2022 but lost the general election to Democratic Sen. James Ruchti of Pocatello.

Primary Revolves Around Immigration, Transparency

Guthrie, first elected in 2010 and now seeking a ninth term, has drawn fire from hardline Republicans for declining to schedule hearings on immigration legislation in his committee this session.

The McCammon Republican appears on a target list compiled by Stop Idaho RINOs PAC, which identifies lawmakers the group says vote with Democrats.

Worley has made transparency and immigration enforcement central themes of his campaign. In a candidate survey, he said too many legislative decisions happen behind closed doors through procedural gatekeeping.

“I am running to uphold immigration law, defend Idaho family values, and restore integrity and transparency so the people’s business happens in daylight,” Worley wrote.

Candidates’ Positions and Background

On his campaign website, Worley outlined positions opposing what he calls “Cultural Marxism” in schools and committed to blocking government support for LGBTQ initiatives. He identifies Christian morality as foundational to public policy.

Worley filed a religious discrimination lawsuit against Idaho National Guard leadership in January, alleging a policy barring Christians from command positions. A federal judge dismissed the case in February, writing it was unclear such a policy exists.

Guthrie, a former Marsh Valley School District trustee and Bannock County commissioner, voted against the $50 million Parental Choice Tax Credit last year and has advocated for increased education funding. He co-sponsored legislation creating the Idaho Launch grant program in 2023.

Last month, Guthrie cast the lone Senate Republican vote against legislation regulating bathroom access for transgender individuals.

What’s Next

The Republican primary election takes place May 19. Guthrie has not responded to candidate surveys or interview requests. Worley submitted survey responses but has not granted interviews.

The winner will face the general election in November, with District 28 representing parts of Bannock County in southeast Idaho.