WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — Both of Idaho Republican Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo attended the presidential inauguration for Joe Biden at the U.S. Capitol Wednesday.
Sen. Crapo posted a photo of the two men on Twitter.
In the tweet, Crapo said he would uphold his conservative principles while working to find common ground on the issues important to Idahoans.
Sen. Risch sent out this message in a tweet:
“The peaceful transition of power has been the cornerstone of our democracy for 245 years. Today's inauguration marks the enduring strength of our nation. May God bless our new President and Vice President, and God bless the United States of America.”
We are told neither senator attended President Trump's send-off earlier in the morning.
As for Idaho Rep. Russ Fulcher, he did not attend the inauguration nor Trump's send-off. We are told he spent the day in Idaho. He did post a statement on Facebook late Wednesday afternoon.
Rep. Mike Simpson says he watched the inauguration from home. He said that was because there was intense security and social distancing at the Capitol.
Simpson did thank the Trump family for their service to the country.
He says he will continue to represent and promote Idaho's conservative values in Washington. And he hopes to work with this administration to find unity to help heal the nation.
Here is Rep. Simpson's full statement:
"Kathy and I want to thank President & Mrs. Trump and Vice President & Mrs. Pence for their service to our country. A peaceful transition of power is one of the things that makes this country great. I welcome President Biden and his administration. I will continue to represent my constituents and promote Idaho's conservative values while working with this administration to find unity to help heal our nation. I will be praying for their success and for the success of America."
Late Wednesday afternoon, Idaho GOP Chairman Tom Luna released the following statement:
Today, a new administration was inaugurated to lead our country for the next four years. Since 1789, the United States has upheld a peaceful transition of power by swearing in a new administration after an election. The Idaho Republican Party upholds and cherishes this peaceful transfer of power as it's an integral principle of American government. Although we continue to have deep divides as a nation, and strong disagreements on politics, it is incumbent as Americans, and Idahoans, that we move forward as one United States.
President Trump, in his farewell address, said "Now more than ever, we must unify around our shared values and rise above the partisan rancor and forge our common destiny."
Throughout this new administration, your Idaho Republican Party vows to be the loyal opposition against any legislation seeking to raise taxes, increase regulation, or infringe upon our liberties. We will work with our federal delegation to promote Idaho voices in Washington D.C. and stand strong for our conservative values.
This change of power will not change our values and beliefs. We will always strive to better the lives of all Idahoans through Republican principles and conservative governance.