Legislators, Candidates and Faith Leaders Join Forces to Renounce Antisemitism

DOZENS OF LAWMAKERS, CANDIDATES AND FAITH LEADERS UNITE TO DENOUNCE IDAHO FREEDOM FOUNDATION’s ASSOCIATION WITH ANTI-SEMITE DAVE REILLY

In a resounding display of solidarity, 33 Idaho lawmakers, candidates and faith leaders have joined forces to publicly denounce the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s controversial decision to retain known antisemite Dave Reilly for messaging purposes, expressing their collective dismay at the organization’s association with an individual who has continually espoused anti-Semitic views and promoted violence and hate in Idaho. The recent signors join hundreds of Idaho Leaders United members across the state who have pledged to disavow extremism and political violence.

The Idaho Freedom Foundation’s recent decision to retain Dave Reilly, despite his history of antisemitic remarks, has sparked widespread concern and condemnation. The undersigned, including prominent figures from various faith communities and legislative bodies, emphasize the importance of standing against bigotry and promoting inclusivity.

“We cannot stand idly by while an organization of influence unites itself with an individual who has a track record of promoting hate speech and violence” said Amos Rothstein, former executive director of the Idaho GOP and member of Idaho Leaders United. It is crucial that Idahoans demand a higher standard and actively work towards fostering an environment of respect and understanding.”

In a noteworthy development, Wayne Hoffman, the leader of the Idaho Freedom Foundation, stepped down from his position in the wake of the criticism surrounding the Reilly hire. This move comes amidst growing pressure and public outcry against the organization’s association with Dave Reilly. Idaho Leaders United  sees this as a pivotal moment for the organization to reassess its values and commitments.

Idaho Leaders United expressed hopefulness that the new leadership of the IdahoFreedom Foundation will take swift and aggressive action to sever ties with Dave Reilly. The organization believes that such a decisive move is essential to fostering a political environment free from discrimination and hate speech. “We’re appreciative of this change in leadership and are looking forward to seeing how we can all work together for Idaho,” said Cortney Liddiard, CEO of Ball Ventures and Idaho Leaders United board member. “We should all seize this moment to get back to working together for all Idahoans.”

Idaho Leaders United remains vigilant and committed to monitoring developments in this matter and invites all Idahoans to join in denouncing the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s association with Dave Reilly.

“I served this country, both as a police officer and abroad in the Idaho Air Guard, to protect and safeguard our communities,” said Tom Shuler, retired colonel for the Idaho Air National Guard, former Boise Police Officer and member of Idaho Leaders United. “I’ve seen firsthand how hateful rhetoric against a religious minority can turn into violent actions. We all need to speak out and demonstrate that our state is no home for antisemitism or white nationalism.”

The undersigned have joined Idaho Leaders United in denouncing the Idaho Freedom Foundation for their affiliation to known anti-Semite Dave Reilly:

1. Rabbi Dan Fink, Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel

2. Pete Schroeder, Cathedral of the Rockies

3. Pastor Duane Anders, Cathedral of the Rockies

4. Father John Worster, St. Mary’s Catholic Church

5. Reshma Kamal, Islamic Center of Boise

6. Debbie Mallis, Interfaith Equality Coalition

7. Rev. Sara LaWall, Boise Unitarian Universalist Fellowship

8. Rev. Dr. Andrew Kukla, First Presbyterian Church

9. Geoff Schroeder, District 8

10. Lori Bishop, District 10 (candidate)

11. Julie Yamamoto, District 11

12. Rick Just, District 15

13. Steve Berch, District 15

14. Ali Rabe, District 16

15. Sue Chew, District 17

16. Ilana Rubel, District 18

17. Brooke Green, District 18

18. Lauren Necochea, District 19

19. Melissa Wintrow, District 19

20. Treg Bernt, District 21

21. Jeff Agenbroad, District 23 (candidate)

22. Alex Caval, District 24 (candidate)

23. Chenele Dixon, District 24

24. Linda Wright, District 25

25. Laurie Lickley, District 25 (candidate)

26. Greg Lanting, District 25

27. Jack Nelsen, District 26

28. James Ruchti, District 29

29. Mary Shea, District 29 (candidate)

30. Kevin Cook, District 32

31. Stephanie Mickelsen, District 32

32. Mark Harris, District 35

33. Josh Wheeler, District 35