Rep. McCann’s ‘No’ Vote Sinks HJR 1 by One Vote in Idaho House

District 6 Representatives Split as Brandon Mitchell Votes Yes, Lori McCann Votes No on Parental Education Rights

On February 19, 2025, the Idaho House of Representatives rejected HJR 1, a joint resolution to amend the state constitution and protect parents’ rights to homeschool and direct their children’s education. The measure failed by a single vote, with Rep. Brandon Mitchell (R-District 6) voting in favor and Rep. Lori McCann (R-District 6) casting the deciding “no.”

HJR 1 aimed to revise Section 9 of Article IX of the Idaho Constitution. The existing text allows the legislature to prescribe qualifications, limitations, and conditions for the right of parents to instruct their children at home, with the following language: “COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL: The legislature may require by law that every child shall attend the public schools of the state, throughout the period between the ages of six and eighteen years, unless educated by other means, as provided by law.” The resolution proposed removing this language and adding: “The right of the people to educate their children without government regulation outside of the public schools of the state shall not be infringed.” This change would have secured parental authority over education choices, free from potential legislative restrictions.

District 6’s Divided Vote

Rep. Mitchell supported the resolution, aligning with advocates of parental rights and education freedom. Rep. McCann’s opposition, however, determined the outcome, which required a 2/3 majority to pass, and failed by a single vote. Before the vote, Colton Bennet, McCann’s primary challenger in the last election, emphasized its importance: “Idahoans, tomorrow morning the Idaho House is voting on HJR 1 which will enshrine in our constitution the right of parents to homeschool or otherwise educate their children according to the dictates of their conscience. This is a critically important piece of legislation.”

Reactions on X

Responses on X were immediate. @arwebst61 posted, “Names to primary!! Somebody paid somebody off here!!” hinting at distrust in McCann’s vote. @Reform_Edu_HQ labeled her “RINO of the Day,” citing an endorsement from the Idaho Education Association. @clearwatertackl wrote, “Unbelievable. Lori McCann needs to go,” and @realSnakeFarm added, “Fire up the primary machine,” reflecting calls to challenge her in the next election.

Implications of the Vote

McCann’s vote has drawn scrutiny given her public image as pro-education. Critics note that rejecting HJR 1 contrasts with the interests of families seeking educational options, particularly homeschooling. Without the amendment, the legislature retains authority to regulate home education, a concern for Idaho’s growing homeschool population.

Rep. Mitchell’s vote, meanwhile, aligned with District 6 constituents favoring parental choice. The split highlights differing priorities within the district, with McCann’s decision now a focal point for debate. As Idahoans assess the outcome, her “no” on HJR 1 may shape perceptions of her record—and her future in office.