In a recent interview on Newstalk 107.9 with hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason, Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) discussed the current legislative landscape in Washington, addressing topics ranging from voting legislation and IRS reform to the future of Republican leadership. Crapo emphasized a desire among some lawmakers to remain in the capital during the August recess to finalize the SAVE Act.
Crapo explained that Republicans are pursuing a reconciliation bill to advance the SAVE Act, a move that would allow the legislation to bypass the filibuster. According to the Senator, the proposed bill would provide grants to states to facilitate the implementation of the act’s provisions. The House version of the bill also includes $60 billion in funding for national defense. However, Crapo acknowledged that securing the necessary 50 votes in the Senate remains “dicey,” noting that some Republican members are currently absent or facing difficult political races.
The conversation also turned to the health and status of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. While some have questioned McConnell’s ability to serve, Crapo maintained that the decision to remain in office is personal. He rejected calls for McConnell to resign, stating that the leader is “mentally capable” and currently undergoing rehabilitation. Crapo cautioned that rushing a replacement could lead to legal complications in Kentucky, potentially risking the seat falling to the opposition.
Regarding domestic policy, Crapo highlighted his leadership on the Taxpayer Assistance and Service Act. This legislation contains 60 provisions designed to modernize the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Crapo described the bill as a significant reform that strengthens taxpayer rights, digitizes paper-heavy systems, and protects victims of fraud. He stated that the goal is to make the agency more “taxpayer-friendly” and reduce the stress of navigating the federal tax system.
Finally, Crapo addressed immigration, specifically a proposal by Senator John Curtis of Utah for state-sponsored visas. Crapo expressed concern that such a “patchwork” of state regulations would create a jurisdictional mess. Instead, he called for improvements to the H-2A guest worker program, suggesting that expanding legal pathways for agricultural workers would reduce the pressure for illegal border crossings.
