Political Quotes

“2 weeks ago we reached another troublesome milestone for Puget Sound's magnificent, but endangered, orca population. We lost yet another southern resident orca, this time a 23-year-old male known as L-92. This is the third death just in the past year, and the sixth in the past 2 years. There are now just 75 southern resident orcas left, the lowest number in 34 years. In fact, that is 13 fewer whales than when the population was initially listed in 2005 under the Endangered Species Act. I am sad about this loss and frustrated about this loss. Indeed, I am beyond frustrated. I am beyond frustrated because we know what needs to be done to save this iconic species in the Pacific Northwest. But, quite frankly, the Federal Government isn't living up to its partnership responsibility. Back home in Washington State, the State government and local partners are stepping up. Governor Inslee earlier this year created the Southern Resident Orca Task Force, and he charged two terrific public servants, my friends, Stephanie Solien and Les Purce, with leading it. But these partners can't do it alone; nor should they. We all have to fully invest in the Puget Sound in orca recovery programs. Mr. Speaker, I remind you Puget Sound is the largest estuary in the United States of America. The good news is we know where our efforts need to go.…”