SHA Statement on Nomination of Governor Gina Raimondo (D-RI) for Commerce Secretary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 7, 2021

Media Contacts: Blake Androff, (202) 234-1224

                            Leigh Habegger, (703) 794-5114

WASHINGTON – Seafood Harvesters of America, the largest association of commercial fishermen committed to sustainable seafood, released the following statements after President-elect Joe Biden announced he was nominating Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo to serve as Secretary of Commerce:

“We are pleased to see the Biden Administration continue the important work of cabinet nominations, including the recent nomination of Governor Gina Raimondo (D-RI) for Commerce Secretary. In light of the increasing number of proposed actions in our federal waters, we sincerely hope Governor Raimondo’s experience working with the commercial fishing industry in Rhode Island will guide her in ensuring our businesses continue to thrive. In particular, her leadership on the Special Area Management Plan (SAMP) will be useful as the Commerce Department navigates ambitious offshore wind goals. We look forward to her swift confirmation and working with Ms. Raimondo and the Department of Commerce on ensuring that our commercial fishermen have a seat at the table during these, and other fisheries management, discussions.” - Leigh Habegger, Executive Director

“It is my sincere hope that Governor Raimondo carries with her the experiences and lessons learned from her time in Rhode Island. As the possible Commerce Secretary, she will have to find a harmonious existence for both the fishing industry and the offshore wind industry. Hopefully her time in Rhode Island has granted her the wisdom to make sound choices to ensure the delivery of both. I hope that the commercial industry doesn't become collateral damage of greater blind ambition.” - Christopher Brown, founding President of Seafood Harvesters of America and commercial fishermen in Rhode Island

You can view a PDF of this statement here.