Associated Press - May 26, 2009 10:34 AM ET

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (AP) - Sen. Mike Crapo says he understands the frustrations of those that have been protesting federal spending and rising national debt.

The Idaho Republican met Monday in Idaho Falls with organizers of the local anti-tax Tea Party protest, held last month in cities across the state and nation. The Boise rally drew an estimated 2,500 people.

Some of those who attended the Idaho Falls rally reconvened on Monday, carrying signs and marching down the city's greenbelt.

Crapo says he met with organizers Monday because he was unable to attend the rallies last month. Crapo says he hopes the momentum gained last month continues to grow.

Crapo says spending it out of control and it's time for leaders to show some fiscal responsibility.

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