Biography

Jim Risch, Idaho's 28th Senator, is a dedicated public servant who is consistently recognized as one of the most conservative members of the U.S. Senate.

Now in his third term in the U.S. Senate, Senator Risch has built a reputation for protecting the Second Amendment, advocating for energy independence, blocking federal overreach, and defending Idaho agriculture and natural resources.

Senator Risch serves on five key committees: Energy and Natural Resources, Foreign Relations, Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Intelligence, and Ethics. He also serves as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

A proud Vandal, Senator Risch received his bachelor’s degree in forestry and Juris Doctorate from the University of Idaho. He began his career in public service when he was elected to two terms as Ada County Prosecuting Attorney. He went on to serve in the Idaho State Senate, where his peers elected him as Republican Majority Leader and President Pro Tempore.

Following his time in the State Legislature, Senate Risch was twice elected as Idaho’s Lieutenant Governor. There, Senator Risch’s lifelong efforts to cut red tape and lower taxes distinguished him as a proponent for small businesses and economic development.

In 2006, Senator Risch became Idaho's 31st Governor. As Governor, Senator Risch achieved major tax reform, cutting property taxes by 20%, and secured $100 million for Idaho's public schools. He also led efforts to effectively manage the state's roadless areas and directed additional funding to expand Idaho's nursing programs.

Outside of public service, Senator Risch is a rancher, small business owner, and former senior partner of the Risch Goss Insinger Gustavel Law firm. He and his wife, Vicki, have been married for over 50 years. They are the proud parents of three married sons and have nine grandchildren and live on their ranch outside of Boise.