Team,

As a lifelong Washingtonian, I know protecting our planet should be a priority every day — not just on Earth Day. And as someone who grew up on the Olympic Peninsula, I learned firsthand that economic growth and environmental protection should always go hand-in-hand.

Team, Washington State's way of life and economy are rooted in our natural surroundings. That's why in Congress, protecting our natural resources and fighting for clean air and water remain one of my top priorities.

From eradicating the invasive European Green Crab and recovering salmon and steelhead populations to combating the climate crisis to working to restore Puget Sound, I remain a committed partner in the efforts to protect our environment.

Last Congress, alongside Representative Marilyn Strickland, I was proud to introduce the PUGET SOS Act to enhance the federal government’s role and investment in Puget Sound. And in December, I was proud to see President Biden sign our bill into law.

But when it comes to addressing the climate crisis and protecting our natural resources, Congress can and should do more! That's why I am reintroducing the Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in the House — which would protect the wildest and most pristine places on the Peninsula and ensure we can keep and grow jobs in our natural resource industries.

Team, you can't live in a state as beautiful as Washington and not know the value of our natural world. I'm committed to the conservation of our way of life every day — not just on Earth Day. That's why I'm asking:

Today, and every day, will you join me in recommitting to the fight to protect our planet by adding your name next to mine?

Happy Earth Day! It's an honor to serve you,

Derek