By Congressman Mike Simpson
The Simpson Standard
January 4th, 2026
Dear Friend,
First and foremost, Kathy and I wish you and your loved ones a Happy New Year. After a productive 2025 and historic accomplishments achieved during the first session of the 119th Congress, 2026 is here! It’s an honor to serve you in Congress, and I look forward to another exciting year.
2026 is looking bright. For starters, look at what was achieved in 2025. We now have the most secure southern border in American history, thanks to President Trump’s executive actions and Congress’s historic investments in border security. Furthermore, crime in our country is declining. The statistics are a direct result of law and order policies and standing firm with the men and women who protect our communities 24/7.
Additionally, as we’ve seen, gas prices are down. Idaho is one of the 38 states where gas is, on average, under $3 per gallon. That’s not it — earlier this week, the Trump Administration announced funding awards to states through the Rural Health Transformation Program. This historic initiative was made possible by the Working Families Tax Cut legislation. Idaho will receive more than $185 million next year.
I could go on and on, but Idahoans and Americans nationwide should prepare for the largest tax refund in our nation’s history. Also passed in the Working Families Tax Cuts was the largest middle and working-class tax reduction in American history. The tax cuts passed by Republicans and signed into law by President Trump will save hardworking families thousands of dollars.
Welcome, 2026!
Idaho Will Receive Funding to Strengthen Rural Health Care
Idaho will receive more than $185 million next year through the Rural Health Transformation Program. This historic initiative is the largest investment in rural health care in American history.
I’ve said this more than once, but it bears repeating: the Working Families Tax Cuts was one of the most important bills I’ve voted on in Congress. A win for rural Idaho!
Honoring an Idaho Falls Hero
I recently had the opportunity to meet with the Wheeler family, the niece and relatives of John Lusk, an Idaho Falls native who served our country during World War II.
John Lusk served in the Army for 33 months with eight campaign stars for French Morocco, Tunisia, Sicily, South Italy, Anzio, France, Germany, and Austria. His service deserves the most recognition, and I was proud to present the World War II Victory Medal and the American Defense Service Medal to John’s family. May his service never be forgotten.
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.
