Crapo, Risch in line for big things

Long a low-ranking state in congressional clout, Idaho could get a boost in 2017 if Republicans maintain control of the U.S. Senate: GOP Sens. Mike Crapo and Jim Risch are in line to head full committees for the first time. Crapo, who’s running for a fourth term, would take over as the chairman of the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee , while Risch, now in his second term, would lead the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee . Gary Moncrief, professor emeritus of political science at Boise State University , said Idaho might emerge with “a pretty impressive lineup,” particularly with veteran Republican Rep. Mike Simpson already leading a House of Representatives appropriations subcommittee/Rob Hotakainen, McClatchy D.C. via Idaho Statesman. More here.