Ocean Champions is the only political voice for ocean health. We take a non-partisan approach in working with
the U.S. Congress to ensure ocean health through electoral and legislative action.

2008 Candidate Endorsements

Ocean Champions has endorsed the following candidates for the 2008 Congressional elections. In making endorsement decisions, the Ocean Champions Board of Directors considers a number of factors, including a candidate's past voting record on ocean issues, future leadership potential, committee assignments, candidate interviews, and responses to our questionnaire.

Click here to make a contribution to Ocean Champions - and help support political leadership for our oceans.

Click on a candidate’s name or scroll down for more information.

House of Representatives

John Adler


District: New Jersey 3rd

Key Coastal Communities: Ocean County (Long Beach Island)

Party: Democratic

Leadership: Replacing Ocean Champion Jim Saxton will be no easy feat. Saxton’s leadership on oceans and New Jersey’s environmental issues have set a high standard for the candidates seeking to represent the district. Named one of New Jersey’s ten top legislators by New Jersey Magazine, State Senator John Adler has a reputation for being "hardworking, incisive, and respected by both parties," and he seeks to move America forward by running for the United States Congress in the 3rd District of New Jersey. Now serving in his sixth term as a state Senator, Adler's success is driven by his determination to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to pursue their individual American dreams, get a good education, and reap the rewards of hard work. He knows that through perseverance and hard work we can build a better tomorrow for all Americans. Adler serves on the State Environment committee and has consistently fought against off shore drilling and spoken out against an offshore liquid natural gas facility noting the potential for “environmental nightmare.” In this tough race Adler has earned the support of the Sierra Club and the New Jersey Outdoor Alliance, and deserves the support of Ocean Champions.

Quote from website: “Drilling for oil a few miles off of New Jersey is a mid-20th century response to a 21st century problem. It will do nothing to reduce the cost of gasoline or our nation's carbon emissions, while polluting our beaches and restricting fishing in large stretches of our ocean.”

Website: www.adlerforcongress.com

 

Rep. John Barrow

District: Georgia 12th

Key Coastal Communities: Savannah

Party: Democratic

Terms: 2nd

Key Committees: Agriculture

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Barrow has been a long-time clean-water advocate since his days as a Clarke County/Athens Commissioner. Upon being elected, he was one of the first Democratic co-sponsors of H.R. 1431, (Fisheries Science and Management Enhancement Act of 2005). Today he continues to support important ocean legislation by co-sponsoring both H.R. 21 ("Oceans 21") and H.R 1747 (Safe Drinking Water for Healthy Communities Act of 2007).

Websites: www.barrowforcongress.com, barrow.house.gov

Rep. Madeline Z. Bordallo

District: Guam

Party: Democratic

Terms: 3rd

Key Committees: Natural Resources

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus & House Coastal Caucus

Leadership:  As the Chair of the subcommittee that has jurisdiction over most ocean issues, Rep. Bordallo understands the importance of strong ocean education, research, and conservation legislation. This is why she has authored or supported many bills designed to strengthen marine life protection and explore the oceans.  She is the author of the following legislation: H.R.2400 (‘Ocean and Coastal Mapping Integration Act’) H.R. 5618(`National Sea Grant College Program Amendments Act of 2008') H.R. 5741 (‘Shark Conservation Act of 2008’) H.R. 6537 (`Sanctuary Enhancement Act of 2008'). She is an original co-sponsor H.R. 1205 (‘Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2007’)  H.R. 1834 (‘National Ocean Exploration Program Act’) H.R. 2342 (‘National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008’). Her leadership was critical in the 13-4 vote for OCEANS-21 in her subcommittee and is certain to be equally important in the next session.

Website: www.house.gov/bordallo/

Rep. Allen Boyd

District: Florida 2nd

Key Coastal Communities: Bay County, Panama City

Party: Democratic

Terms: 6th

Key Committees: Appropriations

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus & House Coastal Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Boyd has a history of supporting clean water legislation and in 2005 was an original co-sponsor of legislation to protect Florida’s coast from offshore drilling. In addition, he has actively supported the bi-partisan H.R. 1091 (‘Save Our Shores Act’), testifying before the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment on the harmful effects of red tides. His position on the Appropriations Committee and his support of coastal water issues makes him a valuable friend of the oceans.

Websites: http://www.house.gov/boyd/, www.boydforcongress.com/

Rep. Lois Capps

District: California 23rd

Key Coastal Communities: Santa Barbara

Party: Democratic

Terms: 6th

Key Committees: Natural Resources, Energy & Commerce

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus & House Coastal Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Capps has consistently fought to uphold the moratorium on new offshore oil & gas drilling and was the lead Democratic sponsor of the June 2007 bill, H.R. 2918 (California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act), to extend the moratorium. Rep. Capps is a passionate supporter of the National Marine Sanctuary Program, and supports fisheries conservation and management.

Rep. Capps is an original co-sponsor of:

  1. H.R. 4174 (Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2007 or "FOARAM Act")
  2. H.R. 6434. (Clean Cruise Ship Act of 2008)
  3. H.R. 1907 (Coastal and Estuarine Land Protection Act)

Rep. Capps co-sponsors the following legislation:

  1. H.R. 21 ("Oceans-21")
  2. H.R. 2342 (National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008)
  3. H.R. 1187 (Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act)
  4. H.R. 2537 (Beach Protection Act of 2008)

Websites: www.house.gov/capps, www.loiscapps.org

Rep. Kathy Castor

District: Florida 11th

Key Coastal Communities: Tampa

Party: Democratic

Terms: 1st

Key Committees: Rules

Caucuses: N/A

Leadership: As a member of the Hillsborough County Commission, worked tirelessly to protect endangered coastal wetlands. In Congress she continues this fight by supporting a healthy environment and clean water. As one of her first acts in Congress, Rep. Castor introduced H.R 1091 (Save Our Shores Act), which addresses the ever worsening problem of harmful algal blooms (in particular, "red tides"), which impact fisheries, recreation and tourism, and human health. As an outspoken opponent of efforts to lift the moratorium on offshore drilling, in April she introduced H.R. 5861 (Florida Coastal Protection Act).

Rep. Castor is a co-sponsor of: H.R. 21 ("Oceans-21"), H.R. 1187 (Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act) and other important ocean legislation.

Websites: www.castorforcongress.com, castor.house.gov

Rep. Vernon Ehlers

District: Michigan 3rd

Party: Republican

Terms: 7th

Key Committees: Science & Technology

Caucuses: Co-Chair Great Lakes Task Force, National Marine Sanctuary Caucus

Leadership: A PhD scientist, educator, and self-professed environmentalist Rep. Ehlers stands up for what he believes and understands that environmental problems know no borders. Although his district is landlocked, Ehlers has made a career of fighting for the protection of the Great Lakes and the Ocean. He is opposed to drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. In 2002 he wrote and helped pass the “Great Lakes Legacy Act.” He still leads that fight as co-chair of the Great Lakes Task Force and by sponsoring H.R. 1350 (Great Lakes Collaboration Implementation Act), H.R. 6460 (Great Lakes Legacy Reauthorization Act of 2008) as well as co-sponsoring, H.R. 4211 (Clean Water Restoration Act of 2007), H.R. 6577 (Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact) among other related legislation. His ocean advocacy includes co-sponsoring H.R. 250 (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Act) and H.R. 4174 (Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2007 or ‘FOARAM Act’). As the member of the Science and Technology committee Rep. Ehlers will be crucial in helping move H.R. 21 (“Oceans-21”).

Website: www.house.gov/ehlers

Rep. Sam Farr

District: California 17th

Key Coastal Communities: Monterey & Santa Cruz

Party: Democratic

Terms: 8th

Key Committees: Appropriations

Caucuses: Co-Chair & Founder, House Oceans Caucus

Leadership: As the lead author and tireless champion of a truly visionary piece of legislation - H.R. 21, the Oceans Conservation, Education, and National Strategy for the 21st Century Act ("OCEANS 21") - Rep. Farr has shown his commitment to healthy oceans, and his leadership skills. Oceans-21 would implement key recommendations of the Pew Oceans Commission and U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy with common-sense solutions. Rep. Farr also introduced H.R. 6434. (Clean Cruise Ship Act of 2008) and is a co-sponsor of H.R 1091 (Save Our Shores Act).

He has added his support to other important ocean legislation by co-sponsoring the following bills:

  1. H.R. 2918 (California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act),
  2. H.R. 2342 (National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008)
  3. H.R. 4174 (Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2007 or "FOARAM Act")
  4. H.R. 1187 (Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act)
  5. H.R. 1907 (Coastal and Estuarine Land Protection Act)

Websites: www.farr.house.gov, www.friendsoffarr.org

Rep. Bart Gordon

District: Tennessee 6th

Party: Democratic

Terms:  12th

Key Committees: Science & Technology

Leadership: Though his state is far from the ocean his Chairmanship of the Science and Technology committee makes Rep. Gordon a key to ensuring a healthy ocean environment. His history of seeking bipartisanship support makes him an effective leader. Rep. Gordon’s work to improve our country through the promotion of science and education has led to the introduction of H.R. 2272  (America COMPETES Act) that in part calls for improvements in Ocean research and education. More directly he has co-sponsored H.R. 1187 (Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act).

Website: gordon.house.gov

Rep. Rush Holt

District:  New Jersey 12th

Key Coastal Communities: Oceanport

Party: Democratic

Terms: 5th

Key Committees:  Natural Resources

Caucuses: Co-chair, Research and Development Caucus

Leadership: A PhD physicist Rep. Holt’s science background makes him a valuable member of the Natural Resources Committee. He is one of only two House members to receive a lifetime 100% rating from the League of Conservation Voters, and endorsed by the Sierra Club.  Rep. Holt is a solid defender of the environment. This defense extends to the oceans as shown by his support of H.R. 4174 (Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2007 or ‘FOARAM Act’) and H.R. 21 (“Oceans-21”). He is also a co-sponsor of H.R. 2342 (National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008), H.R. 4211 (Clean Water Restoration Act of 2007) and H.R. 2758 (Northern California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act).

Websites: holt.house.gov, www.rushholt.com

Rep. Mike Honda

District: California 15th

Key Coastal Communities: San Francisco Bay Area

Party: Democratic

Terms: 4th

Key Committees: Appropriations

Leadership: During his four terms in Congress Mike Honda has proven to be an effective environmental advocate. Endorsed by the Sierra Club and highly rated by the League of Conservation Voters, Rep. Honda has worked to protect wildlife, California’s air and water quality, as well as supporting clean energy alternatives. His ocean and coastal advocacy includes: co-sponsoring H.R.21  (“Oceans 21”), H.R.2918 (California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act), H.R.2758 (Northern California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act), H.R.2342 (National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008), and H.R.1187 (Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act).  As a member of the Appropriations committee we are looking for Rep. Honda to build upon his environmental record and to expand his advocacy of ocean issues.

Websites: honda.house.gov, www.mikehonda.org

Christine Jennings

District: Florida 13th

Key Coastal Communities: Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice

Party: Democratic

Leadership: Christine Jennings understands that taking care of the environment is about more than finding new ways to use old fuel. In her campaign she has made the environment and in particular the health of Florida’s coastline a priority of her campaign. We endorsed Christine Jennings in her bid for the U.S. House in 2006. Unfortunately, her opponent took the 13th district with just a handful of disputed votes in 2006 and since then has had poor environmental record, earning himself a mere 25 percent rating from the League of Conservation Voters. It is time to right both wrongs and Christine Jennings, who has already promised to support the Save Our Shores Act, as well as Everglades restoration, has shown her commitment to protecting Florida’s natural resources and coastal waters. Her election will add another Ocean Champion to Florida’s already formidable congressional delegation.
 
Quote from website: “The environment is critical to our economy, our health and our lifestyle. I am committed to supporting the Safe Climate Act, which includes important provisions to reduce emissions and lead to energy independence, along with other efforts to reduce global warming and invest in alternative energies. I will oppose any effort by the big oil companies to drill off Florida's coast and will fight for tougher environmental standards to ensure that our air and water are protected. I will also work for more funding for Red Tide research and Everglades restoration, ensuring that the natural beauty of Florida is protected.”
 
Website: www.christinejenningsforcongress.com/

Rep. Patrick Kennedy

District: Rhode Island 1st

Key Coastal Communities: Newport, East Bay, Providence

Party: Democratic

Terms: 7th

Key Committees: Appropriations & Natural Resources

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus & House Coastal Caucus

Leadership: This Ocean State leader understands the importance of healthy oceans.  Active in both the Coastal and Ocean Caucuses, Rep. Kennedy is a cosponsor of ‘OCEANS-21’ as well as co-sponsor of numerous bills aimed at protecting marine life and our valuable coastlines.  As a member of both the Appropriations and Natural Resources Committees, Rep. Kennedy is well placed to continue his fight for the environment -- especially the oceans and coastlines that are such an important part of his state.

Quote from website:  “It is vital that we protect our oceans, which comprise the planet's most valuable natural resource.” 

Website:  www.patrickkennedy.house.gov

Linda Ketner


District: South Carolina 1st

Key Coastal Communities: Charleston, Myrtle Beach

Party: Democratic

Leadership: A former high school teacher, businesswoman and a successful community organizer, Linda Ketner has earned a reputation as a pragmatic and bi-partisan problem solver. For example, in 1991, after learning that thousands of South Carolinians had no plumbing and more than 800,000 lived in dangerous housing, Ketner spearheaded a partnership of businesses, state agencies and state legislators to pass the Housing Trust Fund Bill.  Ketner is seeking to solve the problem of an incumbent who has never earned more than an 8% rating from the League of Conservation Voters. She has made it a priority of her campaign to take the steps necessary to improve our waterways and environment, and is committed to bringing her skills and passion to the protection of South Carolina’s and the nation’s coastal resources.

Quote from website:  “Now is the time for energy independence and freedom from the political, military and polluting consequences of it.  Now is the time to reduce our carbon emissions and improve the quality of our air and water, as well as reduce the impact of the greenhouse effect.   This must be a priority for the next administration and congress.”    

Website: www.lindaketner.com

Rep. Mark Kirk

District: Illinois 10th

Key Great Lakes Communities: Waukegan, North Chicago

Party: Republican

Terms: 4th

Key Committees:  Appropriations

Caucuses:  Co-Chair Great Lakes Task Force

Leadership: As the author of the Great Lakes Protection Act, Rep. Kirk has shown he cares about clean water and the environment.  He has authored important clean water bills like the Mercury Pollution Reduction Act and the Save Our Waters From Sewage Act.  As Co-Chair of the bi-partisan Great Lakes Task Force, he has shown the leadership needed to forge legislation that protects a resource that goes beyond state or national boundaries. This skill and his passion for the environment make Rep. Kirk a valuable member of Congress.

Quote:"Protecting our environment is critical to preserving our way of life. That's why I authored the Great Lakes Water Protection Act because we must put a stop to the poisoning of our water supply."

Websites: www.house.gov/kirk/, www.kirkforcongress.com

Frank Kratovil

District: Maryland 1st

Key Coastal Communities: Eastern Shore

Party: Democratic

Terms: House candidate for Maryland

Leadership: The primary defeat of Wayne Gilchrest presents danger for the continued support of the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. Frank Kratovil, the State's Attorney for Queen Anne's County and the Democratic candidate, has made support for the Chesapeake Bay one of the cornerstones of his campaign while his opponent Andy Harris makes no mention of this important part of Maryland’s ecosystem. In addition, the League of Conservation Voters, which had endorsed Gilchrest, has thrown it's support to Kratovil in part because of his plans to protect the Chesapeake Bay and Maryland's natural resource but also because his opponent, Andy Harris has a “9% lifetime score from the Maryland League of Conservation Voters.” Frank Kratovil has pledged to support the Clean Water Restoration Act, resisted the pressure to support expanded offshore driling in presently off-limits areas, supports a moratorium on menhaden fishing off the Atlantic coast-restoring the population of this critical filter fish in the Chesapeake Bay, and he will fight for increased funding to help farmers make the switch to best environmental practices - to reduce the nutrient pollution devastating the Chesapeake Bay. Facing a tough race, Kratovil needs support if he is to carry on support of this vital natural resource.

Website: www.kratovil.com

Nick Leibham

District: California 50th

Key Coastal Communities: La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Cardiff

Party: Democratic

Leadership: Unlike his opponent who seems to serve the status quo, and believes a border fence will solve all our problems, Nick Leibham is running a race aimed at serving not just the citizens of California’s 50th district but connecting those issues to the complex problems facing our Country. For example, with all the talk of an energy crisis and the cry for quick and dirty solutions, Nick reminds us that “a secure and prosperous future requires a healthy planet with enough energy, water, clean air, and natural resources to provide for all of us. Our increasing dependence on fossil fuels will not help us achieve this future. For national security and environmental security, we need to change our energy policy and foster innovation.” Though he faces a tough race and is battling a “more of the same attitude,” through his words and actions, Nick Leibham reminds us that it takes more to be an Ocean Champion than hanging a surf board in a D.C office.

Websites: http://www.picknick08.com/

Rep. Connie Mack

District: Florida 14th

Key Coastal Communities: Naples & Ft. Meyers

Party: Republican

Terms: 2nd

Key Committees: Budget; Transportation (Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation and Water Resources & Environment subcommittees)

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus; House Coastal Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Mack is a strong supporter of legislation to protect clean water and beaches and to provide more and better science to understand harmful algal blooms including "red tides." Rep. Mack authored H.R. 1091 (Save Our Shores Act) and on July 11, 2008 testified before the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment on his Save Our Shores Act, stating that "this is not a Republican or Democratic matter, rather, it is one that affects the health of our entire nation." Rep. Mack was an early co-sponsor of the reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, which helped build bipartisan support for a critically important bill that passed Congress and was signed into law in 2006. _

Websites: mack.house.gov, conniemack.com

Rep. Ed Markey

District: Massachusetts 7

Key Coastal Communities: Boston area

Party: Democratic

Terms: 17th

Key Committees: Natural Resources

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus & House Coastal Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Markey has served on the important Resources Committee for his entire 30 year career in Congress, and has been a consistent supporter of ocean protection legislation during that time, playing a key role in the passage of the Sustainable Fisheries Act of 1996. Rep. Markey has also long been active on energy issues and was selected by Speaker Pelosi as chairman of the new House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. Rep. Markey is a_ cosponsor of H.R. 21 ("Oceans 21"), and H.R. 1187 (Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act).

Websites: markey.house.gov, www.edmarkey.org

Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr.

District: New Jersey 6th

Key Coastal Communities: Long Branch

Party: Democratic

Terms: 10th

Key Committees: Natural Resources (Fisheries, Wildlife & Oceans Subcommittee)

Caucuses: Co-Chair & Founder, House Coastal Caucus; House Oceans Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Pallone has continued to fight to improve not just his home state’s beaches, but those of the nation, by introducing and promoting H.R. 2537 (Beach Protection Act of 2008) and in the past has fought against indiscriminate offshore drilling with bills such as H.R.777 (COAST Anti-Drilling Act in January 2007) and has called for detailed explanations from those who claim we need to drill now. Pallone introduced H.R 2939 (Atlantic Blackfish Conservation Act) and a related bill, H.R. 2625 designed to protect the Atlantic’s fish population. Rep. Pallone’s ocean leadership also extends to support of such important legislation as H.R. 5741 (Shark Conservation Act of 2008), H.R. 6537 (Sanctuary Enhancement Act of 2008), H.R. 1205 (Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2007), H.R. 1834 (National Ocean Exploration Program Act) and H.R. 2342 (National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008). He has played a key role in some of the most important oceans legislation of the last ten years.

Websites: www.house.gov/pallone, pallonefornewjersey.com

Chellie Pingree

District: Maine 1st

Key Coastal Communities: Rockland, Portland, Brunswick

Party: Democratic

Leadership:   As a business owner and former state Senate majority leader, Chellie Pingree believes we can have both “a healthy environment and a healthy economy.”  Now running for Maine’s open 1st District, the innovative Pingree proudly notes that her campaign office runs entirely on wind-generated power.  Endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters Pingree looks to take her fight to the national level. Given Maine’s history of environmental protection and the importance of the ocean to that state’s culture and economy (Pingree is challenging to fill the House vacancy created by ocean champion Rep. Tom Allen who is running for U.S. Senate), we believe a Pingree victory in November will ensure another strong voice speaking for the Oceans.
 
Quote from website: " We have a unique opportunity to take concrete steps to protect and preserve the environment. We just need to show the political will to take advantage of it.”
 
Website: www.chelliepingree.com

Rep. Nick J. Rahall

District: W.Virgina 3rd

Party: Democratic

Terms: 16th

Key Committees: Chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources

Leadership: As chairman of the Natural Resources Committee, Rep. Rahall has been instrumental in promoting and moving important ocean legislation that had been left behind by previous committee leadership.  In 2006, as ranking member of this committee, Rep. Rahall proved his leadership by successfully fighting to re-authorize and strengthen the Magnuson-Stevens Act.  His leadership will be critical to moving future ocean legislation like OCEANS-21.

Websites: www.rahall.house.gov/

Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen

District: Florida 18th

Key Coastal Communities: Miami, Florida Keys

Party: Republican

Terms: 10th

Key Committees:  Ranking member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee

Caucuses: Co-Chair, National Marine Sanctuary Caucus

Leadership: Representing a district surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic on the other, Rep. Ros-Lehtinen understands the necessity of protecting the Oceans. Co-founder and Co-Chair of the National Marine Sanctuary Caucus she has worked to “protect the environmental integrity of coral reefs and other coastal marine resources.” Rep. Ros-Lehtinen helped secure the passage of H.R. 1205 (Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2007),  introduced H.R 1679 (Caribbean Coral Reef Protection Act) and co-sponsored H.R 6537 (Sanctuary Enhancement Act of 2008). She also supports H.R. 1091 (Save Our Shores Act), designed to protect beaches and promote science to understand red tides. A former educator, Rep Ros-Lehtinen understands the need to get future generations involved with the oceans.  She dove down to the Aquarius Undersea Laboratory in the Florida Keys where she participated in an online question and answers session with several school classrooms. For her continuing and direct commitment to Ocean protection Ileana Ros-Lehtinen deserves our support.

Quote from website: “ I am committed to keeping the environmental integrity of the Keys intact.”

Websites: www.house.gov/ros-lehtinen, www.ros-lehtinenforcongress.com

Rep. Chris Shays

District: Connecticut 4th

Key Coastal Communities: Bridgeport

Party: Republican

Terms: 11th

Key Committees: Government Reform (Vice-Chair)

Caucuses: House Oceans Caucus & House Coastal Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Shays has been one of the most consistent voices in Congress for protecting the environment generally and the oceans in particular. He was the lead Republican sponsor of the Clean Cruise Ships Act of 2004, and has been an original co-sponsor of two bills to reauthorize and reform the Magnuson-Stevens Act. Rep. Shays is an original cosponsor of the Ocean Conservation, Education and National Strategy Act for the 21st Century ("Oceans 21"), as well as H.R. 1907 (Coastal and Estuarine Land Protection Act).

Quote from website: "I believe protecting and preserving our environment is one of the most important duties Congress has. We simply won't have a world to live in if we continue our neglectful ways."

Websites: www.house.gov/shays, www.shaysforcongress.org

Rep. Hilda Solis

District: California 32nd

Key Coastal Communities: Los Angeles

Party: Democratic

Terms: 4th

Key Committees: Energy & Commerce, Natural Resources

Caucuses: House Coastal Caucus

Leadership: Rep. Solis is a committed clean-water advocate, and has consistently voted to uphold the moratorium on new offshore oil & gas drilling. She has introduced H.R 1747 (Safe Drinking Water for Healthy Communities Act of 2007) and is an original co-sponsor of H.R. 2918 (California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act_) as well as co-sponsor of both H.R. 21 ("Oceans 21":) and H.R. 2342 (National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008).

Websites: solis.house.gov, www.hildasolis.org

Linda Stender

District: New Jersey 7th

Key Coastal Communities: Charleston, Myrtle Beach

Party: Democratic

Leadership: Why is Linda Stender an Ocean Champion pick? Because she has a history of fighting for environmental protections: “In the state Assembly, she wrote the New Jersey Global Warming Response Act - creating the nation's strictest reduction standards to curb global warming emissions.” New Jersey legislators at the state, and national level are earning reputations as leaders in the fight for ocean and environmental action. As a proven leader in the State Assembly we expect Linda to bring that commitment to the national level, following in the footsteps of Saxton, Lautenberg, Pallone and joining our other New Jersey champions in the fight to protect our oceans and coastal resources.

Quote from website: "We need an energy policy that lowers gas prices and ends our dependence on foreign oil, through investments in renewable energy sources and green technologies. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to leave them a cleaner, greener world.”

Website: www.lindastenderforcongress.com

Rep. Debbie Wasserman-Schultz

District: Florida 20th

Key Coastal Communities: Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Adventura & Sunny Isles

Party: Democratic

Terms: 2nd

Key Committees: Appropriations & Judicial Committee

Leadership: A key appointment to the Appropriations committee shows that great things are expected from Rep. Wasserman-Schultz.  Representing Florida, she has shown leadership in protecting Florida’s Everglades and the nation’s coastal waters. She is an original co-sponsor of H.R 1679 (Caribbean Coral Reef Protection Act), a co-sponsor of the important bipartisan H.R. 1091 (Save Our Shores Act), H.R 617 (Restoring the Everglades, an American Legacy Act of 2007) and H.R 2758 (Northern California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act). Her environmental record has earned high marks from the League of Conservation Voters and the endorsement of the Sierra Club. As a member of the Appropriations committee Rep. Wasserman-Schultz is well positioned to extend her environmental efforts to the nation’s coastlines and oceans.

Websites: wassermanschultz.house.gov

 

U.S. Senate

Rep. Tom Allen

State: Maine

Party: Democratic

Terms: Senate candidate for Maine

Key Committees: Energy and Commerce (As Rep. of Maine District 1)

Caucuses: Co-Chair

Leadership: Rep. Allen has been a true leader in protecting the oceans. As Co-Chair of both the House Oceans Caucus & House Coastal Caucus_es, this six term representative of Maine's 1st district was instrumental in the reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Act. In support of our oceans, he has introduced legislation to create a national ocean observing system, H.R. 2342 (National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2008) and H.R. 4174 (Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2007 or "FOARAM Act") He is an original co-sponsor of both H.R. 21 ("Oceans 21"), and H.R 1091 (Save Our Shores Act). We are confident that as a Senator from Maine, Tom Allen will provide continued strong leadership on critical ocean issues.

Websites: www.tomallen.org, tomallen.house.gov

Sen. Frank Lautenberg

State:New Jersey

Party: Democratic

Terms: 4th

Key Committees: Appropriations; Environment and Public Works;Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Leadership: Sen. Lautenberg’s support of the oceans is both practical and far-reaching. He has written laws to protect citizens, beaches and shores from the hazards of sewage and oil spills, introduced legislation calling for safer oil tankers and supports Coastal Estuary and coral reef protection.  Among others, he is the author of S.836 (‘Water Quality Investment Act of 2007’), S.1581 (‘Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2007’ or” FOARAM Act’), S.1506 (‘Beach Protection Act of 2007’), S.2844 (‘Beach Protection Act of 2008’), and S.2699 (‘Oil Spill Prevention Act of 2008’).  He is an original co-sponsor of S.391 (‘Clean Ocean and Safe Tourism Anti-Drilling Act’ or the “COAST Anti-Drilling Act’), S.1142 (‘Coastal and Estuarine Land Protection Act’) and a co-sponsor of S.1580 (‘Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2007’).

Websites: http://lautenberg.senate.gov/, www.lautenbergfornj.com/

Sen. Jack Reed

State:Rhode Island

Party: Democratic

Terms: 2nd

Key Committees: Appropriations

Leadership:  Proving there is more than one way to fight for the environment and the oceans, Sen. Reed introduced S. 1981 (“No Child Left Inside”) an initiative aimed at improving environmental education in our schools. In a more traditional mode, Sen. Reed has always been an active proponent of protecting and improving Rhode Island waterways by supporting legislation such as S.1142 (‘Coastal and Estuarine Land Protection Act”) and S.836 (“Water Quality Investment Act of 2007”).

Websites: http://reed.senate.gov/, www.jackreed2008.com/

Mark Begich

State: Alaska

Party: Democratic

Terms: Senate candidate for Alaska

Leadership: With 44,000 miles of shoreline and predictions of rising seas becoming a reality, if ever a state needed an Ocean Champion it is Alaska. Mark Begich, a native son and the mayor of Anchorage understands that Alaska is “ground zero for the impacts of climate change” and that leadership is about creating, not pocketing change. As mayor he has worked to reduce emissions, and make Anchorage a more energy efficient city while also working with international winter cities to “address climate change.” As Anchorage's mayor, Begich invested $10 million to remove barriers to fish passage, maintain and restore riparian habitats, and increase public involvement in salmon and watershed stewardship in the state's largest city. In 2007, his Salmon in the City program received two national awards - the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Fisheries and Habitat Conservation Award and the Coastal America Partners Award from the Office of the President. This summer Begich introduced proposals “to replace thousands of city street lights with energy-efficient LED fixtures, and a Sustainable Building Initiative requiring ‘green’ city buildings and incentives for private sector builders.” That’s the type of commitment and forward thinking needed in Washington today and why Ocean Champions believes Mark is the right person to take up the fight to ensure the future viability of our oceans, coastlines and marine life.

Quote from Web site: “The science of climate change is clear: if we don’t act immediately to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions the cost of doing nothing will far outweigh the cost of taking action.”

Website: http://www.begich.com/

Kay Hagan

State: North Carolina

Party: Democratic

Terms: Senate candidate for North Carolina

Leadership:  As a State Senator for North Carolina Kay Hagan has developed a record of supporting environmental protection. She has voted to protect ground water resources from chemical and farm waste run off, promoted energy conservation in state government buildings and supported increased use renewable energy sources. According to the Sierra Club “Kay Hagan is on the right side of environmental issues. She supports rapid and aggressive reductions in greenhouse gases and believes that energy conservation is key.” The League of Conservation Voters also supports Hagan for her efforts to increase the use of renewable energy and notes her “average score of 85% from the Conservation Council of North Carolina from 2003 to 2007” compared to Elizabeth Dole’s “pathetic 4 % score from the League of Conservation Voters during her time in Washington is a significant reason why Hagan represents a “new path for North Carolina” Ocean Champions believes in developing relationships with candidates who have shown a willingness to stand up for the environment at the local level in hopes that they will be open to supporting the oceans at  the national level . Kay Hagan has what it takes to become an Ocean Champion.

Quote: ìI’m proud to be endorsed by Ocean Champions and look forward to working with them in the Senate. North Carolina’s coast is both a treasured possession and an economic boon, and it’s of the utmost importance to me that we protect and preserve it for generations to come. I also believe we need to encourage water conservation and invest in environmentally responsible hydropower, as well as promote research into renewable resources such as wave and tidal energy which could help us reduce our dependence on foreign oil and help prevent further global warming.” 
 
Website: www.kayhagan.com

Jeanne Shaheen

State: New Hampshire

Party: Democratic

Terms: Senate candidate for New Hampshire

Leadership: Sometimes to see the future you have to look to the past, Jeanne Shaheen’s history of environmental leadership has shown that environmental action doesn’t have to come at the cost of economic growth. As Governor of New Hampshire Shaheen gets credit for developing the State’s first comprehensive energy plan, and established a “State Building Energy Conservation Initiative” that reduced carbon dioxide emissions. Shaheen also pushed passage of legislation requiring power plants to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxide, sulfur oxide, carbon dioxide and mercury. Another set of “Energy efficiency” programs promoted by Shaheen helped residents and businesses save money while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Shaheen also succeeded at improving laws that increased water conservation and improved the safety and reliability of New Hampshire's water supplies. This is the kind of leadership needed today, one that intelligently serves the needs of citizens while understanding our role as environmental stewards for future generations. It is for these reasons that the Sierra Club, The League of Conservation Voters, and Ocean Champions have all joined together to support Jeanne Shaheen and the future.

Website: http://www.jeanneshaheen.org

 

 

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