Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+41$2.4M raised
James Risch
Senator · Idaho · Republican
James Risch
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Biography
James Risch began his career as a county prosecutor and rancher, grounding his public service in Idaho’s rural communities. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2008, he represents Idaho with a focus on national security, energy independence, and supporting agriculture. As Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Risch has shaped key legislation on international security and rural broadband expansion. He is known for advocating pragmatic solutions and ensuring Idaho’s interests are represented on the national stage.
Education
- J.D., University of Idaho, Moscow1968
- B.S. in Forestry, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID1965
Professional History
U.S. Senator
2009–PresentSenator from Idaho. 3 terms.
Governor of Idaho
2006–07Lieutenant Governor of Idaho
2003–06, 2007–09
President Pro Tempore
1983–88)
Idaho Senate
1974–88, 1995–2003 (Assistant Majority Leader, 1996 / Majority Leader, 1976–82, 1997–2002
President, Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association
1973Ada County Prosecuting Attorney
1970–74Small Business Owner
Rancher/farmer
Former Partner, Risch, Goss, Insinger, Gustavel Law Firm
Policy Focus
International Affairs18%
Commerce3%
Water Resources Development2%
Crime and Law Enforcement2%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from James Risch's record in Congress.
Support for Veterans
Co-sponsored and supported legislation expanding healthcare and benefits for Idaho's veterans, including the VA MISSION Act.
Salmon Recovery Efforts
Advocated for and secured funding to support Idaho salmon habitat restoration and fish passage projects.
Rural Broadband Expansion
Helped pass provisions to increase federal investment in rural broadband infrastructure across Idaho.
Public Lands Management
Sponsored the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Jerry Peak Wilderness Additions Act, protecting over 275,000 acres of Idaho land.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on Foreign RelationsChairman
- Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship
- Senate Select Committee on Ethics
- Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
- Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
- United States Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control
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