FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 06/26/2014
Senator Mark Begich received the endorsement of the United Fishermen of Alaska (UFA), the largest statewide commercial fishing industry trade association which represents 36 different Alaska commercial fishing organizations. UFA is also endorsing Congressman Don Young. Begich is the Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and the Coast Guard, a key leadership role on fish issues, as well as other key sectors of Alaska’s economy.
UFA members span a broad array of organizations from commercial fisheries, trade publications, seafood companies, and communities like the Kodiak Island Borough. Their endorsement is reflective of Begich’s strong record of fighting for the Alaska fishing industry and keeping it strong.
“I am grateful and honored to receive the endorsement of UFA along with Congressman Young,” said Begich. “Fishing is more than a hobby for Alaskans, it makes up $5 billion of Alaska’s economy and supports tens of thousands of jobs. I’ll continue to fight against Frankenfish, crack down on pirate fishing, and push for a smart reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Act that makes sense for Alaska.”
“United Fishermen of Alaska is proud to offer an early endorsement of Senator Mark Begich. We’ve given him an early endorsement because we already know Senator Begich understands how important fishing is to Alaska’s economy and history. We know the work Senator Begich has done on behalf of Alaska’s fishermen and the work he’ll continue to do for an industry that employs thousands and is worth billions. Senator Begich understands fish and Alaska’s fisheries and is ready to fight to protect our jobs and our industry’s future,” said Jerry McCune, UFA President.
Begich joins Alaska leaders like Senator Lisa Murkowski and the late Senator Ted Stevens in his receipt of the UFA endorsement.
Begich is a leader on fish issues in the Senate. He continues to lead the fight against genetically modified salmon. Begich has also secured emergency relief for communities that suffered low salmon runs in past years.
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