02.06.13

Cantwell Statement on Nomination of Sally Jewell to Head Interior Department

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement regarding reports that President Obama would nominate Sally Jewell, chief executive of Recreational Equipment Inc., as Secretary of the Interior. Jewell is a native of Washington state and graduated from Renton High School and the University of Washington. 

“Today marks a new day, with a leader who uniquely understands the tremendous economic value of our outdoor economy,” said Cantwell. “With her business background, Sally Jewell is well-qualified to follow in the tremendous footsteps of Secretary Ken Salazar. 

“Coming from the outdoor industry, Sally understands that preserving outdoor recreation opportunities is often the highest and best use of our irreplaceable public lands. As CEO at REI in Seattle, Sally truly knows the connection between America’s public lands and the burgeoning outdoor economy that supports 6 million jobs across the United States. I’ve appreciated working with her in Washington state – from expanding Mt. Rainier National Park to supporting Washington state job growth.”

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