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David Worley, a Pocatello native and Idaho Army National Guard veteran, has launched a campaign for Idaho’s State Senate District 28, challenging long-time incumbent Senator Jim Guthrie. In a recent interview on Newstalk 107.9 with hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason, Worley detailed his motivations for entering the race, citing a perceived gap between the incumbent’s voting record and the conservative values of the district.

Worley, who returned to Idaho in 2020 after a decade in Virginia, expressed concern that Idaho’s political landscape could shift in a similar manner to the East Coast states he left behind. He argued that many Idaho legislators campaign as conservatives but govern differently once they reach Boise. Worley specifically targeted Guthrie’s role as the chairman of the State Affairs Committee, accusing him of using “desk vetoes” to stall legislation on tax cuts, regulatory reforms, and Second Amendment rights.

One of the primary focuses of Worley’s challenge is the issue of illegal immigration. During the interview, Worley criticized Guthrie for opposing measures that would have mandated E-Verify systems and penalized employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers. He characterized the incumbent’s stance as favoring “soft amnesty” and argued that such bills deserve a full hearing and committee vote if they have already passed the House chamber.

The candidate also highlighted recent social legislation as a point of contention. Worley pointed to Guthrie’s votes against a bill intended to keep restrooms and locker rooms restricted by biological sex, as well as legislation requiring parental notification before a teacher can socially transition a student. Worley asserted that these votes do not align with the expectations of the voters in District 28, which covers Power and Franklin counties and portions of Bannock County.

Despite Guthrie’s significant tenure and name recognition, Worley reported high levels of enthusiasm and donor support for his campaign. He also addressed a failed legislative effort in the Idaho House that he claimed was specifically designed to make him ineligible for the race, noting that the measure was ultimately blocked by other conservative representatives. Worley has recently received the endorsement of Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador as he moves forward with town halls and door-knocking efforts across the district.

Former Idaho State Representative Chad Christensen is seeking a return to the legislature, outlining a platform focused on welfare reform, Second Amendment rights, and stricter sentencing for sex offenders. Speaking in an interview on Newstalk 107.9 with hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason, Christensen discussed his motivations for running for Seat 35A and how he plans to adjust his approach if elected.

Christensen, who previously served in the House, identified welfare fraud as a top priority for the upcoming legislative session. He proposed moving the state’s welfare fraud investigation unit to the Attorney General’s office to ensure greater oversight and independence. Christensen argued that the current administration of the Department of Health and Welfare has hampered the unit’s ability to operate effectively, citing his own professional background as a fraud investigator from 2007 to 2011.

On the topic of public safety, Christensen stated he intends to introduce legislation that eliminates probation or “riders” for certain sexual convictions, opting instead for mandatory minimum sentences. He also reaffirmed his commitment to expanding firearm rights, specifically advocating for “Stand Your Ground” laws, the “castle doctrine,” and legislation allowing for school carry to eliminate what he described as “soft targets” for criminals. He expressed frustration with Senate leadership, claiming good legislation is often “put in a drawer” without a fair hearing.

During the interview, Christensen addressed his reputation for being a combative figure in Boise. When asked by Neal Larson and Julie Mason if a more diplomatic approach might be more effective, Christensen acknowledged that he had matured since his previous term. He noted that while he remains passionate about his core beliefs regarding the Constitution and God-given rights, he recognizes the value of being more strategic. “I’ve matured a little more, I guess, from when I was in office the first time,” Christensen said, suggesting he might use a more diplomatic approach rather than “ramming the front door” as he had in the past.

Christensen also drew a sharp contrast between himself and his opponent, Mike Veile. He criticized Veile’s voting record and alleged that his opponent was too liberal for the district, citing low “freedom scores” and attendance at events hosted by pro-choice organizations. Christensen concluded by expressing concern over the current layout of District 35, which he claimed was gerrymandered to impact his previous re-election efforts.