IDAHO VOICES: “JIM RISCH HAS DONE MUCH FOR IDAHO”

“Over the course of my life, I’ve had the privilege of serving Idaho in many capacities — as a legislator, attorney, businessman, and citizen engaged in our state’s civic life. I’ve watched governors, legislators, members of Congress, and presidents come and go. One lesson stands above the rest: experience only matters when it’s paired with sound judgment, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the people you serve.

Jim Risch has all three.

Long before he became a United States senator, Jim earned a reputation in Idaho as someone who did his homework, kept his word, and understood that public office is about solving problems — not seeking attention. Those qualities have never changed.

Idaho has been remarkably well served by Jim Risch’s progression through public service: Ada County prosecutor, state senator, majority leader, president pro tempore, lieutenant governor, governor, and now one of the most respected members of the United States Senate. Every step prepared him for the next, giving him a depth of experience few public officials ever achieve.

Today, Jim serves as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee while also holding influential positions on the Energy and Natural Resources, Intelligence, Small Business, and Ethics Committees. Those aren’t ceremonial assignments—they’re positions where decisions affecting Idaho’s economy, public lands, agriculture, national security, and energy future are made. Idaho has a seat at some of the most important tables in Washington because Jim Risch has earned the respect of his colleagues.

Influence matters.

When Idaho faces challenges involving wildfire policy, federal land management, water, mining, agriculture, or national security, it’s far better to have a senator who knows how the institution works than someone who would spend years learning it.

Just as importantly, Jim has never forgotten who sent him there. He remains a conservative who believes in limited government, fiscal responsibility, secure borders, abundant American energy, and defending the Constitution. Those principles have guided his public service for decades — not because they’re politically convenient, but because they’re deeply held convictions.

Public service is ultimately about trust. Idahoans have entrusted Jim Risch with increasing responsibility because he has consistently justified that trust. He approaches difficult issues thoughtfully, represents our state with distinction, and understands that leadership is measured by results rather than headlines.

We often hear that experience should be discarded simply because it is experience. I disagree. Wisdom, relationships, and credibility are not liabilities. They’re assets that benefit every Idahoan.

Our state is fortunate to have one of the Senate’s most respected conservative voices representing us. We should keep him there.

That’s why I’ll proudly vote to re-elect Jim Risch to the United States Senate.”

C.A. “Skip” Smyser, of Boise, served in the Idaho State Senate from 1983 to 1990.