Representative Mike Simpson

The Simpson Standard

April 26th, 2026

Dear [salutation],

First and foremost, Kathy and I join Idahoans in mourning the passing of former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne. Dirk was one of my best friends and a true public servant. You can read my full statement below.

I mentioned last week that appropriations season is underway, and we carried the busy work into the next week. This week, the appropriations subcommittee I chair welcomed Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to Capitol Hill, where he testified on fiscal year 2027 budget priorities before the House Appropriations Interior and Environment Subcommittee.

Also, in appropriations news, the full committee voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. I was proud to support this advancement. This bill champions America’s veterans by fully funding veterans’ health care programs and benefits. This legislation also supports military families, strengthens America’s defense, and supports the Trump administration’s policy initiatives. You can read more about this legislation below.

You already knew this, but America's new nuclear era starts in Idaho. I recently wrote an op-ed in The Washington Times regarding Idaho's nuclear energy role on the world stage. You can read the full op-ed here or below.

Honoring Dirk Kempthorne

Dirk Kempthorne was one of Idaho's most distinguished public servants and my dear friend of over 40 years. Dirk's career was a testament to selfless dedication, from the halls of local government as Mayor and Governor to national service as Senator and Secretary.

I join Idahoans in mourning the loss of Dirk, but also feel immense gratitude for his decades of service, loyalty, and the lasting impact he has had on Idaho and America. I am grateful for Dirk's service to our state and nation, as well as his friendship all these years. To Patricia, his wife, and their children, Kathy and I extend our deepest condolences. May he rest in peace.

Hearing with Secretary Burgum

It was a pleasure to see Secretary Burgum again before the House Appropriations Interior and Environment Subcommittee. We had a productive conversation regarding our brave wildland firefighters, protecting access to public lands, and fulfilling our trust and treaty obligations to our nation's Tribes.

I applaud Secretary Burgum's efforts and continued commitment to improving the Department of the Interior in the service of all Americans. I look forward to working together in the fiscal year ahead.

Fully Funding Veterans' Health Care

One of my top priorities in Congress is supporting our troops and veterans. By fully funding veterans’ health care programs and benefits, investing in mental health services, prioritizing funding for military family housing, and so much more, this legislation fulfills our promises to those who have sacrificed so greatly for our country.

This is a must-pass bill each year to honor the brave men and women who have courageously served. I look forward to seeing this bill cross the finish line.

America's New Nuclear Era Starts in Idaho

America has finally decided to get serious about nuclear energy again.

President Donald Trump’s executive orders launching a nuclear energy emergency and directing federal agencies to dramatically accelerate advanced reactor deployment signal a turning point. After decades of hesitation, America is once again treating nuclear power as the strategic asset it has always been — essential to energy security, economic strength and global leadership. We are at the beginning of a new nuclear era, and Idaho is at its center. Read my full op-ed here.