NEWSLETTER: Congressman Fulcher’s Legislative Update

By Congressman Russ Fulcher

Dear Brian,

I always try to be careful not to point “D” against “R,” but in this case, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have allowed the government to shut down to score political points.

Over two weeks ago, the House passed a non-partisan, seven-week funding bill to keep the government open, pay our troops, ensure seniors receive their benefits, and keep both Chambers on track to finish fiscal year 2026 appropriations bills the right way—through regular budget order.

My Senate colleagues on the other side of the aisle have now repeatedly voted this clean measure down, keeping our government closed. Instead, they are demanding a $1.5 trillion increase in spending for measures that include taxpayer-funded healthcare for those in this country illegally and a REPEAL of the $50 billion allocation for American rural hospitals set under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, H.R. 1.

This partisan counterproposal is entirely unreasonable, and democrats know it. It’s time to end this political show and get the government back open for the American People.

Please note that despite the temporary federal government shutdown, my offices remain open. We are here to serve the People of Idaho, and that work will not stop. For more information and resources, click here.

As always, thank you for staying engaged, and I hope this e-newsletter provides a beneficial update on what my team and I have been working on as of late. 

Legislation That Directly Impacts Idaho

I have joined my colleagues in filing an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of Idaho’s law prohibiting biological men from competing against women and girls in sports.

This is a common sense standard aligned with federal law, and I am confident the court will recognize it as such. Click here to read my press release.

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I applaud President Trump and Secretary Burgum’s action to rescind the Biden-era Bureau of Land Management’s Conservation and Landscape Health rule—an effort I have been spearheading in the House through the WEST Act.

This rule would have effectively locked up millions of acres across the U.S. that countless families and businesses have relied on for grazing, ranching, and recreation for generations.

The administration’s move to roll back this regulation protects the way of life for Americans across the West and preserves Congress’s intent of multiple-use on public lands.

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Establishing a more affordable and reliable electric grid means re-prioritizing baseload generation.

That means hydropower, geothermal, natural gas, coal, and nuclear.

H.R. 1047 will help do just that by reforming clogged interconnection queues. I’m proud to have supported this bill through committee and on the House floor.

Legislation With National Impact

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is one of the most consequential bills we vote on in Congress.

This year’s NDAA makes critical updates to our defense acquisition system, enhances our drone capabilities, and modernizes our military arsenal. Just as importantly, it prioritizes the quality of life for service members by authorizing a well-earned pay raise and expanding access to quality healthcare and childcare services.

The United States has the most capable, effective, and lethal fighting force in the world, and this legislation helps keep it that way.

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I voted to advance the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill.

This legislation prioritizes domestic critical mining for materials and minerals, ensuring America’s supply chains are not reliant on foreign adversaries for the building blocks that make up today’s advanced technology.

Additionally, H.R. 4553 will strengthen U.S. energy independence by tapping into the power of geothermal—a natural resource Idaho has been successful in utilizing for over a century—and prioritizes America first by making key investments into the modernization of our military capabilities, nuclear stockpiles, and dams, storage, and other water infrastructure.

Media & Meetings

We had over 12,000 join our recent Idaho telephone town hall!From political violence to fire suppression, nuclear power, and public lands, we covered a wide range of subjects.

I hope the dialogue was not only informative, but also encouraging. For key excerpts covered by the Idaho Press, click here.

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It was great to be back at my alma mater, Boise State University. My team and I had the chance to tour their state-of-the-art facilities, stand on the iconic blue turf, and meet some of the talented Bronco athletes. Boise State continues to recruit bright students, not only from Idaho, but from across the country.

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I had a terrific meeting with the staff at Stanton Healthcare touring their Meridian Clinic.

The tremendous work they are doing to ensure Idaho families and women have access to exceptional medical care, resources, and support is truly making a difference.

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Idaho’s rich agricultural heritage and abundant natural resources are deeply woven into our way of life.

It was a pleasure to spend the morning with the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and meet the bright young leaders serving as our state officers. Their work is helping to prepare the next generation for success in agriculture, food, and natural resource careers. Keep it up!

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I enjoyed spending time with some of Idaho’s dedicated soldiers, discussing recent legislation and hearing what policies they care most about. They represent the very best of the Gem State and our great nation. Mornings simply don’t get much better than this!

Casework Reminder

Since arriving in Congress, I am pleased to share that my terrific casework team has successfully returned over $20 million to hardworking Idahoans. This is money that was owed to constituents but was held up in a federal agency.

If you are a resident of Idaho’s First Congressional District and are unable to get a timely response from a federal agency, or if you feel you have been mistreated, please contact my office. We are here to serve you!

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Your opinions, encouragement, and feedback are so important, and they do not go unheard. Each call, email, and letter are considered as I represent you and make decisions on important pieces of legislation. 

I will send another update soon. In the meantime, I encourage you to keep in touch by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X. 

Sincerely,

Russ Fulcher
Member of Congress