This race is worthy of your full attention

Innocent until proven guilty.

That’s the law of the land, even though it’s not uncommon for the court of public opinion to convict someone alleged to have done something wrong — or for others to swear innocence on behalf of the accused without any proof whatsoever.

Mix into the equation the possibility of politically motivated shenanigans and you can end up wading through some pretty murky waters.

We’re talking now about Branden Durst. Durst is a former Democratic state legislator who switched parties in 2020 and is now one of three candidates for state superintendent of public instruction.

Considered the furthest right of the trio headed to a May 17 primary election showdown, Durst had not been charged with any crime as of this writing. However, a court-issued restraining order against Durst and his wife, Cheri, prevents them from coming near Durst’s ex-wife and his children.

According to the court order, the children can call or text Durst if they wish, but Durst can’t initiate contact. Durst’s wife can’t have any contact with the children at all.

Ada County authorities are reportedly investigating. Durst, a father of five, says the allegations are false and that he expects the case to be dismissed, which certainly is possible. However, being the subject of a child protection case in the midst of his campaign isn’t exactly a ringing endorsement for a candidate seeking to oversee some 323,000 Idaho students. It detracts a bit from any "Let's go Branden" slogans.

Durst will have company on the ballot. Sherri Ybarra announced recently that she’ll seek a third term as superintendent. Ybarra’s going to have to stand on her record of eight years, for better and for worse.

Republicans will also have a choice in Debbie Critchfield, former president of the State Board of Education. While Critchfield might not have the name recognition of a former state legislator or sitting schools boss, neither does she bring baggage to the race.

For many voters, education is one of if not the most important issue confronting our state. It has been a top priority for Gov. Brad Little, who has invested heavily in public education with mixed legislative support.

We will bring to you, Republican voters, as much information as possible on this important school superintendent race so you can choose wisely in May. A substantial stake in Idaho’s future depends on it.