North Idaho Times

Rep. Russ Fulcher, representing Idaho’s 1st district in the U.S. Congress, has been vocal about matters concerning trade imbalances, supply chain dependencies, and consumer privacy. Fulcher, having served in Congress since 2019, replaced Raúl Labrador and previously served in the Idaho Senate from 2005 to 2014. Graduating from Boise State University, Fulcher hails from Boise, Idaho.

On April 7, 2025, Fulcher voiced support for President Trump's trade initiatives to counteract international trade imbalances impacting local manufacturers. He stated, "For decades, other countries have created barriers of entry for American manufacturers. I support President Trump's efforts to address trade imbalances and unfair trade practices in the global market that impact Idahoans. U.S. companies deserve a level playing field to compete."

A day later, on April 8, 2025, Fulcher highlighted challenges arising from China's 2024 ban on exporting key materials to the U.S., asserting that reliance on what he termed "hostile foreign nations" poses a risk to American supply chains. He remarked, "In 2024, China banned the export of antimony, gallium, and germanium to the U.S., critical materials needed in defense and next-generation technology. The message is clear: America cannot be reliant on hostile foreign nations to fuel our supply chains. We have the"

By April 9, 2025, Fulcher turned his attention to consumer protection with a focus on privacy. He introduced legislation, H.R. 859, to require disclosure from manufacturers of smart devices about potential recording capabilities. Fulcher stated, "Consumers should not have to worry about whether a smart appliance in their home is recording them unknowingly. My bill, H.R. 859, the Informing Consumers About Smart Devices Act, would address this by requiring manufacturers of internet-connected smart appliances such as https://t.co/mUt2dJVQy2."