Congressman Simpson today asked Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter to remove his name from the list of potential replacements for U.S. Senator Larry Craig. His statement follows:
 
“After careful deliberation, Kathy and I have determined that my reasons for rejecting a run at an open Senate seat remain as strong today as they were three weeks ago, and I have asked Gov. Otter to remove me from his list of potential appointees. I believe I can best serve Idaho by continuing to build my seniority in the House and serving on the House Appropriations Committee. I am honored and humbled to have been considered for the Senate and appreciative of those who have expressed confidence in me. I am confident Governor Otter will make an excellent appointment to the Senate.”