Before speaking at the Idaho Democratic Party's convention at the Coeur d'Alene Casino Saturday, Keith Allred, slated to face Republican Gov. Butch Otter in November, clarified his position on Idaho's right-to-work law.  Allred came under fire Friday from members of Republican leadership of the Idaho House of Representatives, who suggested that Allred might be a "DINO," or Democrat in name only.  Allred told IdahoReporter.com that though he has spoken with labor leaders, he has made no commitments concerning right-to-work.

In an interview with IdahoReporter.com Saturday, Allred initially refused to clarify his feeling toward right-to-work, but said that he has made no promises to labor leaders about the law.  He said that during his talks with labor representatives, he has told them that only ideas that can garner broad support from Idaho's citizens and Legislature would be ideas he would pursue if elected governor.  "I have made no commitment to repeal right-to-work and labor leaders have not asked for that," he said.  When asked about his personal feelings about it, Allred said "I don't think the governor's platform is a place to advance personal feelings. I think it is a place to figure out what is in the interests of everyday Idahoans."

Republican Assistant Majority Leader Scott Bedke, R-Oakley, called on Allred Friday to clarify his positions on unions and right-to-work at the convention this weekend.  "It’s time for him to come clean with Idaho voters,” Bedke said.  Bedke was joined in that call by Speaker of the House Lawerence Denney, R-Midvale, and House Majority Leader Mike Moyle, R-Star.

Denney claimed Allred is avoiding the issue.  "It’s no surprise that Allred hasn’t taken a stand on an issue that’s so critical to our economic recovery and prosperity,” Denney said.  “It’s clear that he and the Democrats are ducking this issue.”