Risch working to put Idaho first
SANDPOINT - Lt. Gov. Jim Risch doesn't worry about the likelihood the Republican party may be in a minority if he wins nomination to represent as U.S. senator.
His focus is on representing Idaho's diverse population, working to keep taxes down and helping businesses and the economy grow.
Besides, he's no stranger to working to resolve tough issues - when Risch served as the state's 37th governor after then-Gov. Dirk Kempthorne resigned to become Secretary of the Interior, he designed a plan to manage Idaho's roadless areas and oversaw efforts that cut property taxes 20 percent.
Economic development has been a priority since his days in the Idaho Senate, where he served 11 terms before being elected lieutenant governor. Good jobs, Risch said, translate into a good quality of life for the state's residents.
That means continued efforts to diversify the state's economy - once dependent on timber, mining and agriculture. And, while the three are still important, Risch said he said supportive policies have attracted a range of businesses and industries and helped the state's economy grow.
“Even though projected revenue is down, things are substantially better in Idaho than in the nation,” Risch said.
Risch, who was in town for Bonner County's Lincoln Day luncheon, is considered by many to be the front-runner of a packed Republican field that also includes former rancher Rex Rammell, businesman Richard Phenneger, Iraq War veteran Col. Scott Syme and machinist Brian Hefner. On the Democratic side of the ballot, leading the field is former U.S. Rep. Larry LaRocco.
If he wins the seat, Risch said his hope is to serve on the Energy Committee, which also weighs in on public land issues - another key issue for the state.
“It's important that Idaho have a strong voice,” he added.
Risch sees strong similarities between service on the state level and on the national scene. Both are important when it comes to state issues, he added.
Even though there is a strong likelihood, the Republican party will be in a minority, Risch said he sees plenty of opportunities to get things done. Since, under filibuster rules neither party is truly in minority unless the other has 60 or more votes, Risch said the opportunity exists to steer debate and alter direction on issues.
Making the transition from state-level politics to the national scene is something her husband will have no trouble with, said Vicki Risch. Not only is he not afraid to make a decision, he likes to get things done and works with all parties to accomplish the task at hand.
“A lot of politicians talk about a climate of change,” Risch said. “I've proven I can effect change and cut taxes. How many politicians can say they actually lowered taxes?”