WASHINGTON—This week, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson wrote an op-ed in the Washington Reporter regarding his optimism and confidence about the direction America is headed under President Trump’s leadership.

“For nearly a decade, the mainstream media has worked tirelessly to paint Donald Trump and his policies in a negative light. Don’t be fooled. In November, more than 77 million Americans sent a clear message: they want strong leadership, a booming economy, secure borders, and an America-first agenda. Under President Trump, America is once again leading with strength.”

The full op-ed is available here and below.

Thanks to President Trump, America is Back on Track

By Rep. Mike Simpson

Like many Americans, I am optimistic about the direction our country is headed. With President Trump back in the Oval Office and Republicans leading both the House and Senate, we have remained unified and committed to working toward the same policy goals. The Left, on the other hand, is in disarray. Their only agenda is resistance—opposing President Trump at every turn, regardless of the consequences for everyday Americans. Perhaps that explains why their approval rating is at an all-time low.

For nearly a decade, the mainstream media has worked tirelessly to paint Donald Trump and his policies in a negative light. Don’t be fooled. In November, more than 77 million Americans sent a clear message: they want strong leadership, a booming economy, secure borders, and an America-first agenda. Under President Trump, America is once again leading with strength.

Per a recent NBC poll, approval ratings for President Trump and Congressional Republicans are at record highs. More Americans now believe the country is on the right track than at any point since 2004.

Why? Because the American people voted for change and policies matter. Americans endured a president who was asleep at the wheel—one who opened our southern border to criminals and terrorists, made us dependent on nations who hate us for critical resources, and allowed our country to be disrespected on the world stage.

Despite the American people making their voices heard in November, there is a stark difference in how my colleagues from across the aisle react to the Trump administration’s goals. Just last week, Americans watched as House and Senate Democrats played politics with government funding—stalling essential legislation because they oppose the new leadership in the White House. Republicans voted to keep the government open and working for the American people. While we are a diverse nation with many different viewpoints, Americans expect their government to continue functioning day in and day out.

Last week’s government funding vote was one among many. The Democrats have fought Republicans tooth and nail this year on common-sense policies that the American people overwhelmingly support—whether it’s protecting women’s sports, deporting violent, illegal immigrants, unleashing American energy, restoring government transparency, or defending infants who survive an attempted abortion.

I am particularly proud that President Trump signed into law a measure that included permanent pay raises for our wildland firefighters — a provision I was proud to fight for.

The door is open for our colleagues across the aisle to join us in getting critical legislation across the finish line. They can continue playing politics, or they can put the American people first. The choice is theirs.

I take my responsibility to Idahoans very seriously to promote responsible government spending, balance the federal budget, and reduce burdensome regulations. We have a real opportunity to deliver on our promises, reverse the damage done by the Biden administration, and ensure that America remains strong, prosperous, and secure. These steps will not be easy, but they must be taken, and Congress must have the fortitude and courage to act. I am confident that America is on the right track, and I am excited to see America become even greater these next four years.