A former dentist from Blackfoot, Idaho, Mike Simpson was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Idaho’s 2nd District in 1998. Drawing on his experience as a small business owner, Simpson prioritizes water resource management, public lands policy, and agricultural issues vital to Idaho’s economy. He played a key role in authoring the Central Idaho Economic Development and Recreation Act and has served as chair of the House Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee. Simpson is known for his pragmatic approach, focusing on solutions that balance local needs with long-term stewardship of Idaho’s natural resources.