Lawsuit Claims Idaho National Guard Targeted Christian Officer Over Religious Beliefs

The Idaho Army National Guard is facing legal action after allegedly removing a commanding officer for expressing his Christian beliefs. Maj. David Worley has filed a lawsuit against the state’s National Guard, arguing that his suspension and removal were a direct violation of his First Amendment rights.

Worley, a veteran officer, had been selected to lead the Recruiting and Retention unit. However, after his promotion, a subordinate searched his background and filed a complaint over social media posts he had made years prior. The posts, made while Worley was running for public office, expressed opposition to drag queen story hours, pornography in public school libraries, and gender transition procedures for minors.

The lawsuit alleges that after the complaint was filed, Idaho National Guard officials pressured Worley to resign, telling him he would face severe disciplinary action if he did not. When he rescinded his resignation and sought legal counsel, an investigation was launched. That investigation found no evidence that Worley had created a hostile work environment, yet he was still removed from command.

Documents indicate that Idaho National Guard leadership then created a policy requiring all future commanding officers to be screened for “extremist” views. The new rule specifically involves reviewing a candidate’s personal beliefs and past statements to determine if they are in line with the military’s preferred ideology. Liberty Counsel, the legal group representing Worley, argues that this policy amounts to a ban on Christians in leadership roles.

President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order against anti-Christian discrimination, vowing to protect religious liberty in the military. Attorney General Pam Bondi has been assigned to lead efforts to investigate such cases.

The Idaho Army National Guard and Gov. Brad Little have not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit.