Press Releases

I am very disappointed that these groups decided to go to court. Our process began at the local level with input from a variety of wildland users. We crafted higher levels of protection for some lands that truly deserved it, and allowed multiple use of other lands where it fit. We provided for a collaborative process so all voices could be heard. To see these groups file because they didn't get exactly what they wanted is a disservice to the collaborative process and a step backward in resolving conflict in public lands management.

I congratulate my friend and colleague, Mike Crapo, on the passage of this legislation. He has put in an enormous amount of effort working with a wide variety of local citizens, elected officials and interest groups in creating consensus on this legislation. It was my pleasure to support the Owyhee Initiative and the collaboration it represents.

When the Department of the Treasury cannot clearly detail how it spent the first half of the money, I cannot in good conscience give my approval to release the second half. We do know most of that money was not spent as Congress had been told. Before I can support any further economic stimulus measures I want to see concrete plans that provide real jobs for people who need them, financial backing for businesses that can create new jobs, and accountability to show if the programs are working. Taxpayers deserve to know where their money is going.

Washington, D.C.– Idaho Senator Jim Risch and other Senate leaders met with Mexican President Felipe Calderon today to discuss issues of mutual concern to the United States and Mexico. The current business climate in both countries was at the center of discussions during the hour-long meeting. “Mexico is facing many of the same economic challenges […]

I am very pleased that my first vote in the U.S. Senate was in support of Senator Crapo's Owyhee Initiative. Like the roadless proposal that I worked on as Governor, this land use legislation is the result of a long collaborative effort by local elected officials, ranchers, recreationists, conservationists, and tribes. The resulting bill protects the livelihood of working ranch families, and provides certainty for recreationists and important cultural resources, as well as outstanding scenic backcountry areas.

It is disappointing to hear that over 100 people are losing their jobs at CCI/Speer in Lewiston. It is imperative that the new Congress and President work quickly on ways to improve our country's business climate. We must find ways to keep companies like CCI/Speer growing and their workers employed. They are an excellent local employer and we need to move swiftly to keep these jobs that provide the income for many families in the Lewiston area.

I am truly humbled and honored to serve Idaho as a U.S. Senator. It was a privilege to serve as Idaho's 31st Governor and now I have been given the honor of being the 11th person to hold this Senate seat. To follow some outstanding Idahoans who served the state so well – Jim McClure, Len B. Jordan, Henry Dworshak and William Borah – is a great responsibility. I accept it with a tremendous amount of gratitude and eagerness for the challenges ahead.

I am very pleased with the selection of Brad Little as my successor to the office of Lt. Governor. He has been a hardworking State Senator representing District 11 and has the respect of Senators on both sides of the aisle. He has the ability to lead this state when he serves as acting Governor and I know he will be very supportive of Governor Otter as his second in command.