Member of Congress

James Risch

Role
Current Senator
State
ID
Party
Republican

Speeches

ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-09-02

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-09-02

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-09-02

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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RECOGNIZING ARTISAN LABS2025-09-02

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each month I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of a small business in my home State of Idaho. Today, I am proud to honor Artisan Labs of Hansen, ID, as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for August 2025. Founded in 2020 by Matt Bryant, Artisan Labs has quickly grown into a world-class cosmetic and personal care contract manufacturer. Specializing in innovative skin and hair care products, Artisan Labs is known for its ``hot pour'' items such as deodorants, balms, beauty sticks, candles, and ski wax. Today, the business serves nearly 100 brand partners, with products retailing in stores like Ulta and Sephora, as well as through direct-to-consumer markets. Artisan Labs' state-of-the-art research, development, and production facility became fully operational in 2021. Now in their 5th year, Artisan Labs has plans for a 40,000-square-foot facility expansion that will support their continued growth and industry-leading formulation services. Artisan Labs' story is rooted in innovation, community, and empowerment. The company is committed to supporting STEM within the Magic Valley community and throughout Idaho. They host student groups, participate in career fairs, and partner with local youth development programs. A core aspect of Artisan Labs' mission is giving back to the Hansen community, which has welcomed them with open arms. By fostering educational opportunities in rural areas, Artisan Labs aims to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and support the southern Idaho economy. Congratulations to Artisan Labs and its team on being recognized as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for August 2025. Your dedication to excellence make Idaho proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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Unanimous Consent Request--S. 2557 (Executive Session)2025-08-02

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

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Waiving Quorum Calls (Executive Calendar)2025-08-02

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the mandatory quorum calls with respect to the cloture motions filed on July 31 be waived.

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PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED EXPORT OF CERTAIN DEFENSE ARTICLES TO ISRAEL--Motion to Discharge2025-07-30

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today to oppose the two resolutions that are in front of the body right now. These two resolutions are an attempt to stop munition sales to Israel that have been approved by the administration and are designed to provide Israel with defensive weapons that they need. These are misguided resolutions and, if adopted, would reinstate the failed policies of the Biden administration and would abandon America's closest ally in the Middle East. Let's remember, the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the need for the military assistance for Israel is the fault of Hamas. It is not Israel's fault. It is not America's fault. It is the fault of Hamas. It is the result of Hamas's grotesque action on October 7, the threat Hamas poses to American national security, and, of course, Hamas's treatment of the people of Gaza. They set up their military facilities in hospitals and schools and in mosques, they use the people of Gaza as human shields, and they steal the food the people of Gaza need. It is despicable behavior. These are not good people, and it is in the interest of America and the world to see this terrorist group destroyed. I couldn't agree more with my colleagues who want an end to this war. We all want to see an end to this war and an immediate cease-fire and for the hunger crisis in Gaza to end. The solution to all of this isn't to deprive Israel of the weapons it needs; the solution is in the hands of Hamas. This could end in a moment. Hamas could release the hostages, lay down their arms and surrender, and not one more bullet would be fired. But until this happens, we can't let up on these terrorists who have committed the atrocities against Israel, have caused this chaos in the Middle East, and have endangered American national security again and again. I hope my colleagues will join me in opposing this resolution.

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RECOGNIZING JAIALDI2025-07-30

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Idaho's Basque community and the return of Jaialdi, a renowned celebration of Basque heritage, impact, and traditions in the heart of Boise. Idaho has a long and proud history of Basque culture. Today, the Gem State, specifically the Treasure Valley, is home to the largest Basque population per capita outside of the Basque Country. The Basque people first arrived in southern Idaho in the 1890s, settling in Boise, Fruitland, and surrounding agricultural towns. Their unique sheep herding techniques cemented the Basques in Idaho's economic landscape, bringing with them rich traditions and ranching methods that shaped the region. Today, that culture is alive and well in Boise, where an entire downtown block is dedicated to Basque heritage, including the Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga House, a museum and cultural center, and restaurants. There, Idahoans and Basques from around the world gather to recognize Jaialdi. In 1987, Boise hosted the first-ever Jaialdi to educate the public about Basque culture and celebrate the patron saint, Saint Ignatius of Loyola. The multiday festival is held every 5 years and draws more than 40,000 attendees from around the world. After having to cancel the festival in 2020, Jaialdi is back this July for the first time in 10 years. The event features mass, traditional Basque sports, local and international dance groups including the Oinkari Basque dancers from Boise, strength competitions, concerts, and food. For over a century, the Basque people have had a profound influence on Idaho's history, culture, and economy. As we gather to celebrate Jaialdi, I encourage all Idahoans to reflect on the Basque community's legacy and its enduring role in the Gem State's success.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-29

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-28

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-28

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-28

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-28

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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Unanimous Consent Request--S. Res. 81 (Executive Session)2025-07-23

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I thank Senator Ricketts for those very clear remarks that demonstrate exactly why this needs to be done. I myself for a long time have hoped to see our European partners wake up to the extreme threat that we all face from a nuclear Iran. Today, we are 10 years on from President Obama's failed nuclear deal with Iran. Over the last 10 years, Iran has enjoyed unwarranted sanctions relief, and time is short before the opportunity expires to snap back sanctions, as has been described by my colleague from Nebraska. This resolution would make it clear that the U.S. Senate understands the threats we face from a nuclear Iran and urges our UK, French, and German partners to immediately trigger snapback sanctions pursuant to U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231. We cannot afford to wait until the end of August. Initiating the snapback process would be right and a long-overdue move and would deny Iran the resources it uses for its terror agenda. The 2015 deal flooded Iran with cash while allowing it low-level enrichment, a clock to simply wait out, no limitations on ballistic missiles, and nothing to rein in terror proxies. Years down the line, the sanctions relief Iran received from this deal directly funded Iran's terror proxies and led to Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel. Iran's ejection of the International Atomic Energy Agency from its facilities marked the latest in a long chain of violations of Iran's nuclear commitments. These actions confirmed what we have known all along: The Iran nuclear program is not civilian, as they claim; it is the pursuit of a bomb to destroy Israel and threaten U.S. national security interests in the region. The international community must not tolerate this activity any longer. The decision to initiate the snapback process is only the beginning. The U.N. Security Council must fully process and formally reinstate U.N. sanctions without delay. Furthermore, once sanctions are back in place, we must commit to their enforcement. Chinese purchases of Iranian oil and illicit oil smuggling through third countries have long violated existing U.N. sanctions. Once U.N. sanctions return, all member countries will have a duty to crack down on this illegal activity. President Trump has once again instituted a maximum-pressure policy to bring Iran to the negotiating table. I hope our European friends will also take the next step to counter Iran's threat to regional and global security for good. This resolution will communicate with our European friends that it is the intent of this body to do so. With that, I yield back to Senator Ricketts.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-23

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-23

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-23

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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RECOGNIZING PRESTON, IDAHO2025-07-22

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, today, I rise with my colleagues Senator Mike Crapo and Congressman Mike Simpson to celebrate the 125th birthday of Preston, ID. From the famous Preston Night Rodeo to the historic brick-and-mortar businesses along State Street, Preston has both a deep history and bright future to be celebrated. The first settlers arrived in the Preston area in 1888, establishing a small agricultural town in the fertile Cache Valley of southeastern Idaho, which they called ``Worm Creek.'' The community, shaped by faith, family, hard work, and resilience, was officially incorporated on July 25, 1900. The newly formed city was named Preston in honor of William B. Preston, the fourth Presiding Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Preston quickly became known for its strong agricultural foundation, primarily in dairy, sugar beet, and grain farming, which still influence the economy today. In 1904, the Oregon Short Line Railroad connected Preston to larger nearby markets, spurring growth in commerce, education, and the community in Franklin County. Preston High School was built shortly thereafter, in 1908. In the more than 100 years since, the school has gained recognition not only for its academic achievements but also for the 2004 pop culture sensation ``Napoleon Dynamite.'' This iconic film captured the sincerity and quiet charm that Preston has displayed since its founding. The city of Preston is a true testament to Western American heritage. These values are evident in the kindness of the community, rich agricultural roots, and the Famous Preston Night Rodeo. Since 1934, the award-winning Preston Rodeo has attracted world-champion cowboys and cowgirls, stimulated economic development, and inspired generations of family fun. For 125 years, Preston has demonstrated that hard work, responsible stewardship of the land, and commitment to community create a lasting impact. Today, we proudly recognize more than a century of this small town's strong families, agricultural innovations, and notable small businesses that will continue to shape its future.

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RECOGNIZING THOMAS MERCANTILE2025-07-22

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each month I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of a small business in my home State of Idaho. Today, I am pleased to honor Thomas Mercantile as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for July 2025. Thomas Mercantile opened in Swan Lake in 1909 when Samuel Thomas bought the store. Alongside his brothers Chauncey and Moroni, the family operated the local post office, grocery store, and a harness and saddle business. During its 108 years of operation, the Thomas Mercantile was known as the ``hub'' of the Swan Lake community. From its early days as a dancehall and barbershop to becoming home to the first television in east Idaho, the shop was a favorite spot for town meetings and camaraderie. Three generations of Thomases ran the business, overcoming the Great Depression, World War II, tragedy, and triumph, before closing the mercantile in 2017. In the spring of 2021, Idaho native Kaarin Engelmann took on the challenge of reopening the store. After a lengthy restoration process, during which Kaarin worked extensively to preserve the business's history, charm, and beloved radiators, the Thomas Mercantile reopened its doors in May of 2023. Today, Kaarin continues the legacy of the Thomas Mercantile by hosting community events, such as board gaming afternoons, Music at the Merc, and Swan Lake Market Day. The shop also supports local producers, sourcing its baked goods, eggs, pork, and beef from vendors in the Swan Lake region. Congratulations to Kaarin, the Thomas family, and all the employees at Thomas Mercantile on being selected as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for July 2025. Thank you for serving Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-07-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. 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. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record