Mike Crapo
Party: Republican
Age: 53
Personal: Married to Susan; five children.
Education: Graduated from Idaho Falls High School, 1969; B.A. in political science with emphasis in international relations, Brigham Young University, 1973; law degree, cum laude, Harvard Law School, 1977
Professional: Attorney, Idaho Falls, 1979-1992; attorney, San Diego, 1978-79; clerk, 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, 1977-78
Political: U.S. Senator, Idaho, 1999-present; U.S. Representative from Idaho's 2nd District, 1993-1998; president pro-tem, Idaho State Senate, 1988-1992; Idaho state senator, 1984-1992; Republican precinct committeeman, 1980-1984
Key issues: Economy: Favors fiscal restraint and responsibility in the federal budget, to "provide future generations with a solid foundation for democracy and growth." Also favors tax reform to foster economic growth. Other top issues: Cites national security and education. "We must continue to address the current war on terror and the national security issues present in the world today," Crapo said. "Additionally, when children have access to quality education, our country will prosper."
Money raised/spent: 1.5 million as of June 30
Top contributors: Nearly $1 million of that from PACs. Among the PACs giving Crapo the maximum $10,000 in contributions were: American Bankers Association PAC, Boise Cascade Political Fund, Federal Express PAC, National Beer Wholesalers Association PAC, Qwest Communications PAC, and Wal-Mart Stores Inc. PAC.
Quote: "There has been excessive spending in Washington."
Favorite book: The Fountainhead, by Ayn Rand
First priority if elected: "National and economic security." Crapo said his top priority in a second term in the Senate would continue to be balancing the federal budget, which also topped his priority list when he first was elected to Congress 12 years ago.
Website: www.CrapoForSenate.com
