Representative Mike Simpson

The Simpson Standard

March 29th, 2026

Dear [salutation],

The big news out of Capitol Hill this week is the continued efforts to support protecting our homeland and the brave men and women who serve tirelessly to keep the American people safe. Throughout this reckless shutdown, I have proudly supported several provisions to secure our homeland. I'd also like to give President Trump a shoutout for signing an executive order to PAY our brave TSA agents. That's called leadership!

Farmers and producers in Idaho and across the country are seeking certainty. I support President Trump's goal to pass the Farm Bill AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. This would deliver critical relief to Idaho farmers and ranchers. You can learn more about one of my meetings with those in Idaho agriculture below.

In addition to skilled educators and dedicated parents and guardians, several factors influence the quality of education. Idaho has consistently put students first and has implemented policies that support our children and grandchildren. I had a great meeting earlier this week with Idaho Superintendent Debbie Critchfield to discuss some of these policies.

Supporting Our Homeland

For the FOURTH time, the House passed legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security, yet the Senate hasn't been able to pass reasonable funding measures, despite Republicans holding the majority. The stupid and irresponsible Senate bill completely zeroes out funding for border patrol and ICE and puts restrictions on President Trump's authority to pay America's dedicated TSA agents. That sounds like a win for Schumer and Jeffries, NOT Republicans or the American people. I'm deeply disappointed that Senate Republicans caved to Chuck Schumer.

Additionally, the House passed a resolution this week expressing our support for the Department of Homeland Security. The contrast is clear: you cannot claim to care about "national security" while repeatedly voting to keep the Department of Homeland Security shut down. It's wrong.

I've always said that government shutdowns are bad policy and politics. Whether it's 4% of federal funding or 100%, shutting down the government is NEVER the way to negotiate or legislate. The American people lose the most.

Working to Pass the Farm Bill

Passing the Farm Bill as soon as possible would strengthen key programs supporting Idaho's dairy industry and deliver the certainty that hardworking Idahoans deserve.

Dairy industry leaders from Idaho participated in the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) Women's Summit this week.

Thank you to these remarkable Idaho women in agriculture for visiting my office and engaging in this important conversation.

Meeting with Superintendent Critchfield

Great to see Superintendent Debbie Critchfield and discuss all the exciting things Idaho is doing to support Idaho students' success in the classroom.

Thank you for your dedicated service to our great state!