SE Wyoming News

Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and House Western Caucus Chair Dan Newhouse (R-WA) recently wrote an op-ed in the Washington Times, highlighting the efforts of the Congressional Western Caucus to fight against the Biden administration's overreach and protect the interests of rural America.

The Congressional Western Caucus, which has grown to include over 100 members of the House and 20 senators, has remained dedicated to serving the interests of farmers, ranchers, landowners, and rural communities. Despite the challenges faced, the caucus has worked tirelessly to ensure that the legislative priorities of these communities are heard in the nation's capital.

One of the main concerns of the caucus is the Biden administration's policies that cater to radical special interest groups and threaten the way of life in rural and western America. These policies have weaponized conservation laws to halt projects that are vital to the Western communities. In response, the caucus has taken proactive steps to engage directly with affected communities through field tours and forums.

During these field tours, caucus members have had the opportunity to connect with farmers, ranchers, and business owners and understand the real-life impact of harmful policies. This firsthand experience has allowed them to introduce tailored legislation that better serves rural America.

The caucus has also focused on addressing specific issues such as permitting reform, modernizing the Endangered Species Act, advocating for energy independence, and raising awareness about the dangers of the Chinese Communist Party purchasing American farmland. These efforts aim to educate fellow lawmakers about the challenges faced by Western communities.

One particular concern for the caucus is the Biden administration's proposed "Landscape and Conservation Health" rule, which seeks to elevate conservation as a multiple use. The Western Caucus strongly opposes this rule, as it disregards congressional intent and breaks the law. They understand the devastating impact this proposal would have on rural communities and are dedicated to shielding farmers, ranchers, and property owners from this overreach.

In addition to their work on conservation issues, the caucus has also focused on updating antiquated legislation like the Endangered Species Act. Their goal is to ensure that the Act serves its intended purpose of recovering species, rather than being weaponized for political agendas.

Reflecting on the challenges and successes of the past year, the caucus remains steadfast in their commitment to serving rural America and representing their voices in Congress. They recognize the beauty of their landscapes and will do everything in their power to protect them and preserve the Western way of life.

The efforts of the Congressional Western Caucus are crucial in addressing the concerns of rural America and fighting against the Biden administration's overreach. By advocating for legislative reforms and engaging with affected communities, the caucus has proven to be the most effective voice for rural America in Congress.

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To find out more, go to this link: https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/icymi-lummis-newhouse-fighting-biden-administration-overreach-the-most-effective-voices-for-rural-america-in-congress/