Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska has received commitments from Howard Lutnick, President Trump's nominee for Secretary of Commerce, to support Alaska's fishermen and the seafood industry. During a confirmation hearing before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Sullivan highlighted the challenges faced by Alaska's fishing community due to an unfair trade relationship with Russia. He emphasized the role of the Commerce Department in enforcing a ban on Russian seafood imports.

Senator Sullivan questioned Lutnick about his commitment to championing these issues. "Certain secretaries...have not embraced their role that they are really important to our fishing community," said Sullivan. He asked Lutnick if he would focus on supporting American fishermen, particularly those in Alaska.

Lutnick responded positively: "Well, I love to fish, and I'm happy to commit to you. The fishermen of the United States of America are one of our great assets."

Sullivan also requested Lutnick visit Alaska to meet local fishermen, which Lutnick agreed to do: "As long as I can bring my family, we're coming."

The discussion touched upon President Trump's executive order titled “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential,” which aims to utilize Alaska's resources for national benefit. Sullivan sought Lutnick's commitment to implementing this order.

Lutnick confirmed his willingness: "Yes."

Sullivan expressed concerns over past trade practices with Russia and China that affected American fishermen negatively. He urged Lutnick to promote American seafood while preventing imports from countries like Russia and China.

Lutnick agreed: "We’ve got to get rid of those communist fish."

The conversation concluded with a focus on energy projects in Alaska, specifically the LNG project aimed at boosting jobs and reducing trade deficits. Sullivan asked for Lutnick's support in advancing this initiative.

"I can," affirmed Lutnick.