In an editorial today, the Idaho Statesman endorses Congressman Mike Simpson for another term because "Simpson has plugged away and been so plugged in on so many issues -- immigration, the budget and deficits, stewardship of Idaho's natural resources -- this is no time for Idaho to bail out on the dividends it can reap from his seniority and horse-whispering skills to cajole colleagues to choose progress over partisanship. We endorse Simpson for a 9th term because he is a career politician. He has paid his dues. He is more than willing to compromise. He knows the way. He has earned the respect of peers from both political parties, and we suspect he will cash in on that political capital should the House and Senate come out of the Nov. 4 elections with Republican majorities." Full endorsement editorial here. (AP file photo: Mike Simpson during debate before GOPrimary this spring)

Question: We sneer at the term "career politician." But, in reality, doesn't a career politician, like Simpson, who has accrued seniority and influence, offer much for a rural state like Idaho?

 

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