![About Idaho](https://webharvest.gov/congress115th/20180921050657im_/https://www.crapo.senate.gov/imo/media/image/aboutmd.jpg)
About Idaho
Idaho Delegation
Under the Constitution, the State of Idaho is represented in Congress by two Senators. In addition, Idaho's population is large enough to be divided into two House Congressional districts. Together, all four members work to ensure that Idaho has a voice in our nation's capitol. Here are links to the other three members of Idaho's delegation in case you need to contact one of their offices:
- U.S. Senate: James E. Risch
- U.S. House of Represenatives: Mike Simpson & Raul Labrador
![](https://webharvest.gov/congress115th/20180921050657im_/https://www.crapo.senate.gov/themes/crapo/images/Crapo.jpg)
Hometown: Idaho Falls
![](https://webharvest.gov/congress115th/20180921050657im_/https://www.crapo.senate.gov/themes/crapo/images/Risch.jpg)
Hometown: Boise
![](https://webharvest.gov/congress115th/20180921050657im_/https://www.crapo.senate.gov/themes/crapo/images/Crapo.jpg)
Hometown: Idaho Falls
![](https://webharvest.gov/congress115th/20180921050657im_/https://www.crapo.senate.gov/themes/crapo/images/Risch.jpg)
Hometown: Boise
Idaho Senators
Idaho became the 43rd state in the Union on July 3, 1890. The state’s first two senators, George L. Shoup and William J. McConnell, took office on December 18, 1890. Idaho’s longest-serving senators include William E. Borah (1907-1940) and Frank Church (1957-1981). Among those who rose to leadership positions is James McClure, who served as Republican Conference chairman.
Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award
Idaho has a long and proud military history. Our veterans and volunteers have served in every branch of the military, and in organizations from veterans' homes to the VA Medical Center. In all of their efforts, they have demonstrated the spirit, tenacity and sense of self-sacrifice that are integral to our Idaho character. I am impressed by each recipient's commitment to our country and its veterans, and am honored to present these awards every year.
Idaho is home to approximately 135,000 veterans, giving Idaho one of the largest percentages of veterans in the country. As I have traveled around Idaho, I have met with many veterans and the volunteers who assist them. Both deserve special recognition. The Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award is a small way that we can acknowledge their contributions and let others in the community know the sacrifices they have made to secure the freedom we all hold dear. I am very pleased to be able to honor these men and women.
The nominations for the awards are made by a number of veterans' organizations, including the Idaho Division of Veterans Services, the Idaho State Veterans Homes, the VA Regional Office, the VA Medical Center in Boise, and the commanders of various veterans service organizations. The first Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Awards were presented in November 2002. The awards are generally announced on Veterans Day each year.
Spirit of Idaho Award
Many acts of service happen in local Idaho communities, but they are not necessarily recognized by the media or the general public. As a way to bring attention to these worthwhile individuals, groups and projects, I created the Spirit of Idaho Award. The first award was presented in Twin Falls in November of 2000. Since the first award was given, I have been privileged to recognize more than 600 deserving Idahoans who have demonstrated a commitment to improving their community and serving their fellow citizens.
There is no specific schedule for making Spirit of Idaho Awards. They are given for service to a community, and can be given to individuals or groups. The general criteria for a Spirit of Idaho Award is that the recipient must be a resident of the state of Idaho and have set a positive example for the community. There is no formal application process, but individuals who wish to bring some act to my attention are welcome to do so by contacting the nearest Regional Office to share that information.
Famous Idahoans
Idaho has been home to many people who have contributed to our world in many ways--from people who revolutionized businesses to athletes who set world and Olympic records to politicians who have helped shape our national character and debate. On this page, you will find short biographical paragraphs about many who have called Idaho home.