By Congressman Mike Simpson
August 30th, 2026
Dear Friend,
Earlier this week, I sent out a survey asking Idahoans if they support protecting women’s sports. Despite this being an absolutely common-sense issue, given the recent WNBA headlines, I felt it was necessary to reaffirm my commitment to protecting women’s athletics and spaces.
As Idaho’s only appropriator, I take the responsibility of bringing taxpayer dollars back to Idaho very seriously. Personally, I’d rather see taxpayer dollars go to Idaho communities rather than communities in New York or California, wouldn’t you? I recently advanced funding for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project in Aberdeen.
As Congress returns in the next few days, I am looking forward to a productive week back in DC. As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please feel free to contact my office or send me an email.
Protect Women’s Sports
Idahoans have repeatedly made their voices heard for common sense. Thousands of Idahoans responded, and well over 80% support keeping men out of women’s sports! As the first state in the nation to ban biological men from competing in women’s sports, Idaho led the way in protecting female athletes. This would not have been possible without Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador and Idaho State Representative Barbara Ehardt.
As a proud cosponsor of several critical bills to keep men out of women’s spaces, I believe that female athletes deserve a fair playing field, and I’ll keep fighting to protect the future of women’s athletics.
Advancing Funding for Aberdeen Research and Extension Center
Potatoes are one of Idaho’s most important crops, and our state leads the nation in production. As the University of Idaho continues to expand its research to meet industry needs, it is crucial that funding keeps pace with the research efforts.
I am proud to support this project, and as we continue to support the potato industry, we should strive for the goal that ten out of ten Americans associate potatoes with Idaho, rather than just nine out of ten!
Read more about this project and community support here.
A Very Productive District Work Period!
It was a very productive District Work Period. From Idaho Falls to Twin Falls, Boise to Stanley, and Jerome to Sun Valley, with many stops in between, it was so great to spend time in the district and meet with countless constituents.
Throughout the last several weeks, I’ve tried to keep you updated with my weekly recaps in the district, but you can also watch a full district recap 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.
