Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson released the following statement today after the final vote in the U.S. House on the $800 billion Economic Stimulus package. Simpson voted no on the final passage.

"While I support a number of programs and ideas that are reflected in the package we voted on today, I can not support the astronomical amount of money that is being thrown at this problem with very little thought and no debate," said Simpson. "Our country needs repair, it needs help. People are losing their jobs and their homes - we need to act. However, we need to act in a thoughtful manner that includes opinions from all Americans, not just those who control the U.S. House. The way in which this body has conducted its business today – and the entire time we’ve tried to discuss this extremely important legislation – is an embarrassment."