OPINION: The Simpson Standard: May 25th, 2025

Dear Friend,

It was a busy week here in DC! You may have heard something about One Big, Beautiful Bill. There is a lot of misinformation out there about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the legislative vehicle to advance President Trump’s policy agenda. I want to set the record straight and explain why this bill is a WIN for Idahoans and Americans nationwide. You can read more about this legislation below.

Appropriations season is in full swing! Over the last few weeks, subcommittees have held hearings with related agencies to discuss their fiscal year 2026 budget requests. This week, the House Appropriations Interior and Environment Subcommittee heard from Department of Interior Secretary Burgum to discuss the Department’s budget priorities. As Chairman of this subcommittee, I look forward to working with Secretary Burgum to promote domestic energy production, unlock critical minerals, and meet our treaty and trust obligations throughout Indian Country.

Also, this week, the two other Appropriations subcommittees I serve on— the Energy and Water Development and the Labor, Health, Human Services, and Education—heard from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Reclamation, and Education Secretary Linda McMahon. Ever wonder what the appropriations season looks like? Check out my ✨Appropriations Day in the Life✨ video here.

The One Big, Beautiful Bill Advances

What an honor to preside over the House debate to fund President Trump’s agenda—the One Big Beautiful Bill has PASSED the House!

There is no greater time than right now to provide historic tax relief for hardworking Americans, restore energy independence, and make President Trump’s border security policies permanent. The American people demanded change in November, and Republicans are delivering. Passing the One Big Beautiful Bill is the next step in advancing President Trump’s agenda, and I look forward to getting this bill across the finish line and to his desk for signature. Read my full statement here.

Meeting with Secretary Burgum

It was great to welcome Secretary Burgum earlier this week as he testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies.

In addition to discussing unleashing American energy and streamlining permitting, I had the chance to thank Secretary Burgum for his and the administration’s work in halting the out-of-touch Lava Ridge Wind Project. Idahoans are grateful to now have an administration that stands with us and has our backs.

Appropriations Season

I enjoyed hearing from the Army Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Reclamation, and Education Secretary Linda McMahon this week in appropriations hearings.

I asked questions about projects critical to Idaho and returning power over education to parents and local communities. Check out my Day in the Life video here!

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About Mike Simpson

An Idaho native, Mike Simpson was born in Burley and raised in Blackfoot. His political career began in 1980, when he was elected to the Blackfoot City Council. In 1984, he was elected to the Idaho Legislature where he served until 1998, the last six years serving as Speaker. Mike is currently serving his fourteenth term in the House of Representatives for Idaho’s second congressional district. Visit https://simpson.house.gov/ to learn more or find contact info.

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