Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Representative John James (MI-10) led a bipartisan delegation from Midwestern and Great Lakes states in writing a letter to President Joe Biden demanding the inclusion of the Great Lakes into the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE) Pact between the United States, Canada, and Finland.

The letter states:

“We were pleased to learn of the announcement of the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE) Pact between the United States, Canada, and our new NATO ally, Finland following the Washington NATO Summit. The ICE Pact seeks to update the United States’ existing fleet of polar icebreakers at a time that the Arctic is becoming increasingly important for ocean shipping routes and our national security. It is our hope that as the administration develops plans for the ICE Pact, you strongly consider building icebreakers for the Great Lakes, including a domestic heavy Great Lakes icebreaker (GLIB) and replacements for the more than 40-year-old smaller icebreaking tugs that are critical to keeping the North American supply chain moving during the winter months.”

Rep. James had the following to say regarding the importance of funding for Great Lakes Icebreakers (GLIBs) and other icebreakers:

“Procuring icebreakers for the Great Lakes will mean smoother commerce in the Great Lakes region during the winter months. The Great Lakes account for countless jobs in Michigan and the entire upper Midwest, and its economy is critical to the overall health of American commerce and trade. I appreciate the partnership of Representatives Quigley, Bergman, and Kaptur in leading this effort.”

Co-signers had the following to say regarding this letter:

"Investing in modern icebreakers for the Great Lakes is crucial for maintaining the flow of commerce, ensuring safe navigation, and supporting the local economies that rely on these waters. Beyond economic benefits, these icebreakers play a vital role in national defense by ensuring our waterways remain accessible and secure year-round. The Great Lakes region deserves the infrastructure needed to keep goods moving, communities thriving, and our nation safe." – Rep. Jack Bergman (MI-10)

“The creation of ICE Pact was a tangible example of NATO’s continued importance to our national security. I was proud to join my colleagues in calling on the Biden administration to include the building of icebreakers for the Great Lakes as part of their plans for ICE Pact. Including our region represents an opportunity to progress in our race for the Arctic with Russia and China and keep our nation competitive both economically and geopolitically.” – Rep. Mike Quigley (IL-05)

“The Great Lakes are critical to our nation’s commerce and keeping them open and clear of ice during the winter months is not only critical for our economy but also for the safety of our communities. The ICE Pact is welcome news for our region, and I strongly urge the administration to shore up the Coast Guard’s presence and icebreaking capabilities in our area as the collaborative effort gets underway.” – Rep. Lisa McClain (MI-09)

“In Michigan, the Great Lakes are part of our way of life, and America relies on them as a vital economic asset. The administration must prioritize the Great Lakes within the ICE Pact to replace aging icebreaking tugboats and build heavy icebreakers for Great Lakes shipping. I am proud to join this bipartisan call to the administration to do so.” – Rep. John Moolenaar (MI-02)

“The Great Lakes are an economic engine for our region. Every winter, inadequate icebreaking disrupts critical supply chains and costs jobs. Incorporating the Great Lakes into the ICE Pact is essential to protecting these industries and ensuring we remain competitive. I urge the administration to prioritize this vital investment to strengthen both our economy and national security." – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10)

Click here to view the full version of the letter.

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