WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) today voted against the nomination of Rhea Suh, whom President Obama has chosen to oversee the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service.

(Click for Sen. Murkowski's opening statement)

Murkowski said Suh’s responses to questions from the committee have been inadequate and that she remains concerned about Suh’s lack of experience, judgment, and capacity to provide effective leadership in a key post at Interior. 

“I firmly believe that it should be a nominee’s first instinct – not a last resort – to be responsive and provide information when asked by members of this committee,” Murkowski said. “I am also concerned that she has not demonstrated that she is the right choice to oversee and provide needed direction to the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service.”

Murkowski has repeatedly raised concerns with the decision-making process at the Fish and Wildlife Service and the impact on Americans living throughout the West. She also referenced an editorial from today’s Wall Street Journal highlighting Suh’s past work and statements in opposition to natural gas development.

Suh’s nomination was ultimately approved by the energy panel along party lines, 12-10.

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