1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding recent developments that threaten the future of our nation’s public lands, environmental protections, education, and research funding. These pillars are not only vital to the health and prosperity of our country but also to the legacy we leave for future generations. The Trump administration has taken actions that undermine conservation efforts and environmental protections. For example, the administration has rolled back forest protections to ramp up logging on national forests, frozen federal funding for environmental nonprofits, and dismantled pollution rules that safeguard clean air and water. These decisions prioritize short-term economic gains for private industries over the long-term health and sustainability of our environment and communities. Additionally, the administration has pushed for privatization and drilling on public lands, including reducing the size of national monuments to allow for oil and gas leases. This not only jeopardizes the ecological integrity of these lands but also diminishes their cultural and recreational value for Americans. Education and research funding have also faced significant cuts, with federal grants to universities being restricted and threats to defund public schools over diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. These actions hinder our ability to innovate and prepare future generations to tackle pressing challenges, including climate change and the transition to renewable energy. I urge Congress to take decisive action to counter these harmful policies. We must: 1. Increase funding for national parks to address maintenance backlogs and ensure their accessibility for all Americans. 2. Protect public lands from privatization and drilling, preserving them for ecological, cultural, and recreational purposes. 3. Restore and expand funding for education and research, recognizing their critical role in driving innovation and economic growth. 4. Invest in green technologies, such as battery storage and renewable energy, to position the United States as a global leader in the clean energy transition. These measures are not just about preserving what we have; they are about building a sustainable and prosperous future for our nation. I call on you, as our representatives, to stand against executive overreach and advocate for policies that reflect the values and needs of the American people. Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing Congress take bold steps to protect our environment, education system, and public lands.