Ada Reporter

Congressman Russ Fulcher held a telephone town hall from Washington, D.C., addressing concerns from Idaho residents and discussing national and local issues. During the event, Congressman Fulcher highlighted the importance of transparent communication.

“This is an exciting but confusing time, and I want to make sure I’m speaking with you honestly and clearly,” stated Congressman Fulcher. He emphasized the severe challenges posed by the $36 trillion national debt, inefficiencies in federal agencies, and misleading rumors, underlining his commitment to honesty and service.

Constituents questioned Congressman Fulcher on various subjects, including the economy, federal land policy, Social Security, immigration, and cultural issues. In response to inquiries about federal agency restructuring, he clarified: “We are $36 trillion in debt as a nation, which is unsustainable. These audits need to take place because restructuring is critical and healthy." He argued that the audits aim to eliminate fraud and restore efficiency without cutting vital services or jobs.

On the topic of trade policy, he noted substantial positive outcomes from recent tariff strategies: “American companies have been historically discriminated against... So there is some merit, I believe, in putting American suppliers on a level playing field.” According to Fulcher, these policies have attracted over $3 trillion in private investments to the U.S. and prompted negotiations with more than 70 countries.

Discussing wildlife management in Idaho, he expressed support for a new House Natural Resources Committee action: “Today’s action in the House Natural Resources Committee is a step in the right direction—giving states the tools they need to protect rural communities, safeguard livestock, and responsibly manage predator populations." Fulcher explained that wolves and grizzly bears, no longer endangered, should be managed at the state level.

On federal land control, he reported that more than half of Idaho’s land is under federal oversight, dating back to the Civil War, leading to deficient management: “We’re governing as tenants, not landlords—and that’s not sustainable.” He advocated for local control, focusing on improved stewardship.

Regarding economic pressures and the housing market, Fulcher acknowledged the affordability challenges faced by younger generations and advocated for local development initiatives as a short-term alleviation. However, he pointed to fiscal discipline as the long-term solution: “Local projects can help in the short term, but long-term relief comes from getting our national fiscal house in order—reducing debt, lowering taxes, and encouraging economic growth.”

The recorded broadcast of the telephone town hall forum is available for public access.