1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing as a constituent deeply concerned about the recent layoffs at the National Park Service (NPS) and reports that employment decisions may be influenced by political loyalty rather than merit. The dismissal of hundreds of dedicated park staff, many just days from completing their probationary periods, weakens an agency critical to conservation, tourism, and our nation’s cultural heritage. This issue is personal to me. As a child, I dreamed of becoming a park ranger because I admired the beauty of our national parks and respected the rangers’ deep knowledge and love for nature. Some of my most cherished family memories are from visiting places like Shenandoah, Yellowstone, Bryce, and Zion. My husband and I even exchanged our vows in the Tetons ten years ago. These places are not just scenic destinations—they are part of our national identity and personal histories. These cuts not only jeopardize the preservation of our parks but also threaten the local economies that rely on park tourism. Ohio’s own Cuyahoga Valley National Park attracts millions of visitors annually, generating significant economic benefits for surrounding communities. Scaling back park staff could reduce visitor services, safety, and overall park quality, diminishing this vital economic driver. Additionally, the politicization of federal employment is alarming. Reports of ideological vetting and potential loyalty tests for government employees set a dangerous precedent. Our public lands and the agencies that manage them should be safeguarded from political interference to ensure they serve all Americans, regardless of administration. I urge you to oppose further cuts to the NPS workforce, advocate for the reinstatement of critical staff, and push back against any efforts to use political affiliation as a condition for federal employment. Please stand with the American people in protecting our national parks and the nonpartisan professionals who care for them. I appreciate your time and look forward to your response.