1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The decision to open the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument to commercial fishing activities threatens this vital marine ecosystem, which was established under Republican and Democratic administrations to safeguard its remarkable biodiversity and fragile environment. This protected area is home to endangered species like sea turtles and whales, as well as precious coral atolls. Allowing industrial fishing operations in these waters risks irreparable harm to the delicate ecosystems that previous presidents from both parties purposefully preserved. President Trump's prioritization of short-term business interests over environmental preservation is unacceptable to the American people. We must uphold our longstanding, bipartisan commitment to ocean conservation by reconsidering this misguided policy that jeopardizes a priceless ecological treasure for the sake of profit. The long-term consequences of exploiting this delicate region are severe and entirely avoidable if we act now to strengthen protections for our oceans and marine life.