Will GOP Candidate Get Superintendent Because She is Republican?

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Political newcomer Sherri Ybarra's surprise victory in the Republican primary election caught Idaho off guard in May.

But with an "R'' by her name, politicians and analysts said her chances to become Idaho's next state schools chief were high. However, multiple gaffes along the campaign trail have caused many to wonder if her Democratic opponent Jana Jones could go on to become Idaho's next superintendent of public instruction.

Ybarra won the May election against three challengers who all outraised her and traveled hundreds more miles spreading their campaign message. Jones is a political veteran who has worked for two former Idaho schools chiefs. She ran against GOP incumbent Tom Luna in 2006, losing by a little more than 11,000 votes.