Idaho Statesman Candidate Questionnaire
Press Release
Why are you running?
Jim Risch: I am tired of a Congress that is failing to address the important issues that affect the quality of life for working families. Our gas prices continue to soar and our oil reserves continue to be locked up. I believe the economy of Idaho and America and the security of our country depend upon available and affordable energy. And yet Congress does nothing. We need new leadership. I am running because we need to put partisan bickering aside roll up our sleeves and get to work.
What living Idaho politician do you most respect, and why?
Jim Risch: Phil Batt, Mike Crapo and Jim McClure for three reasons; 1. They are common sense conservatives that believe in state rights and individual freedoms. 2. They work for Idaho with the interest of the Idaho tax payer at heart. 3. They are able to cross party lines and work with both sides for the good of the people they serve.
What decision during your adult life do you most regret, and how has it changed you?
Jim Risch: I was more intense in my younger days. When I was first elected to the State Senate I wanted the process to move more quickly. After a few terms in leadership I mellowed. When you are working with a committee of 105 you learn to spend more time listening. But I have very few regrets in life. Idaho has been very good to Vicki and I and our family and we are thankful for that everyday.
What should the United States do in 2009 about the war in Iraq, and why? What should it do after 2009?
Jim Risch: Like all Americans I want to bring our troops home as soon as possible. That should be a priority and it should be done in a manner that protects our troops, the elected government of Iraq and the people that have supported that government. The Iraqi people must take on the defense of their country and as conditions improve we must return our troops in an orderly fashion that will not destabilize the security of Iraq or jeopardize the safety of the troops that are still there.
What should Congress do in 2009 about the economic downturn, and why?
Jim Risch: The economy will recover when we can bring energy prices down, put money back in the pockets of the American people, and restore confidence in stable tax cuts by making the 2001/2003 tax cuts permanent. This is the most important economic tool we have. The sunset of these tax cuts will harm married couples and families across the board.As Senator I would work to cut taxes, become energy independent to bring gas costs down and help business create jobs that pay well.
What should Congress do in 2009 about federal taxes, federal spending, the underfunding of Medicare and Social Security obligations, the federal budget deficit, and the growing national debt?
Jim Risch: We clearly need to stop out of control spending in Congress. All Americans are having to tighten their budgets, so should the federal government. Less taxes and less regulatory burden are some of the best tools we have to stimulate the economy, increase jobs, improve income and lessen the burden on the entitlement programs . We have made a promise to our seniors that are on Social Security and Medicare and those commitments must be kept, but we need to reform Social Security & Medicare.
What legislation specific to Idaho would be your highest priority in the next session of Congress?
Jim Risch: 1. Bring gas prices down by increasing our energy supply at home. This is an economic issue and a security issue. The high cost of oil not only hurts us at the pumps but it also adds a tax to everything we buy. 2. Make the 2001/2003 tax cuts permanent. The immediate and overnight tax increase allowing these tax cuts to expire is staggering. Idahoans need the security and surety that comes with knowing the government will not change the rules or sound economic policy on them overnight.
What should Congress do about proposed environmental legislation that would affect Idaho (including the Owyhee Canyonlands, Boulder-White Clouds wilderness, and Endangered Species Act changes), and why?
Jim Risch: Idaho people should decide how to manage Idaho lands. That is why as Governor I worked to establish Idaho's roadless plan starting at the local level. As a result of this collaborative effort Idaho will be the first state in America to adopt a roadless rule designed by the people of that state. I support the collaborative efforts that are attempting to bring about broad based, solution to years of land management conflict, the Owyhee Canyonlands and Boulder-White Clouds legislation.
How would you grade Congress' performance during President Bush's second term, and why? If your grade is less than an A, what would you do to make Congress -- and your role in it -- more effective?
Jim Risch: Congress has failed us. That was apparent when they left town, adjourning for a 6 week vacation with gas prices at record highs and no energy policy. Families are suffering. The partisanship and rancor has to stop. I have brought together the diverse interests of mining, lumber, agriculture, environmental groups and the tribes on my roadless plan. I worked with Republicans and Democrats, local, state and Federal governments. I have demonstrated that I can put partisanship at bay.
What federal law enacted in the past three to five years do you most disagree with, and why? What federal law enacted in that period do you most strongly support, and why?
Jim Risch: I disagree most with the failure of Congress to develop a long term energy policy for America. We must develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the energy supply shortages in both the short and long term. I strongly agree with the 2001/2003 tax cuts that delivered real tax relief to American families.
What one or two vital issues do you want to discuss with voters besides those on this questionnaire?
Jim Risch: The Property Tax Relief of 2006 was the largest tax cut in state history documented by the Tax Commission & the Assoc Taxpayers of ID. It cut property taxes by over 253 million dollars in 2006. In Oct. of 2006 1 cent was added to the sales tax to protect schools. Overall taxes were cut by by 30 to 50 million every year thereafter. It was passed by the legislature and was sent to the voters for an advisory vote. It passed with a 72% yes vote. Tax relief for Idaho families is important.
What makes you a better choice for voters than your opponent(s)?
Jim Risch: I believe there is a stark contrast between me and my Democrat opponent on tax and energy issues. I support new drilling. He does not. When I was Governor I cut taxes. On May 28 1993 the largest tax increase in US history came up for a vote in Congress. He voted yes. Mike Crapo voted no. I will work with Mike Crapo not against him.
Source