Arizona Politics

Gosar Introduces Bill Removing Mexican Wolf from Endangered Species List

Representative Paul Gosar (R-AZ) has introduced legislation to take the Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) off the Endangered Species List.

"Since being reintroduced to the wild in Arizona, Mexican wolves have preyed on cattle, livestock, and even family pets, causing significant financial losses and economic hardship on family-run ranches," said Rep. Gosar in his press release, adding, "The Mexican wolf has lingered on the Endangered Species list for nearly 40 years. During that time, there have been numerous accounts of livestock killings and even declines in some big game herds since these wolves were first listed."

Additionally, Rep. Gosar pointed out that 90% of the animal's habitat is in Mexico, but "the USFWS considers recovery within the borders of Mexico in its management goals. American ranchers are being punished for Mexico's failure to manage its own animal populations effectively."

However, environmental groups have fought to keep the Mexican wolf on the list, even as its wild population has exceeded the original federal recovery goals and thus is safe from extinction.

Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ), the bill's cosponsor, said, "The Mexican wolf is destroying the livelihood of western ranchers by slaughtering their cattle. Because of its status as an endangered species–a falsehood perpetuated by the Biden Administration and environmental groups–ranchers cannot protect their herds from these predators."

"I'm thankful that Rep. Gosar is leading the effort to allow Arizona ranchers to protect their cattle without fear of repercussions from the federal government," Rep. Biggs continued, adding, "Cattle are a vital part of Arizona's economy, and Congress must ensure that ranchers are able to protect their herds from dangerous predators."

State Representative Gail Griffin (R-19) previously called attention to the threat of the Mexican wolf at the beginning of June in an op-ed for the Eastern Arizona Courier, saying, "To protect our communities and our way of life, we must stand up against this unfounded and unjust system."

Grayson Bakich

Florida born and raised, Grayson Bakich is a recent recipient of a Master’s Degree in Political Science at the University of Central Florida. His thesis examined recent trends in political polarization and how this leads into justification of violence.

Recent Posts

Nguyen Announces Joint Study Hearing on Prison Safety Measures

State Representative Quang Nguyen (R-1) has announced that the Joint Ad Hoc Study Committee on…

2 days ago

Kelly, Gallego Demand Answers from DHS for Slow Response to AZ Cyberattack

Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) jointly wrote to Secretary of Homeland Security…

2 days ago

Arizona Votes to End Green Energy Rules for Power Companies

Arizona's utility regulators have decided to eliminate rules that require power companies to buy renewable…

2 days ago

Governor Hobbs Wants Federal Investigation of Grand Canyon Fire After Revealed Mismanagement

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs is demanding answers after a massive wildfire at the Grand Canyon…

2 days ago

AG Mayes Warns of Deadly Fentanyl Crisis On National Fentanyl Awareness Day

As new data shows the devastating severity of the opioid crisis, Arizona Attorney General Kris…

2 days ago

The Arizona Free Enterprise Club Is Demanding An Investigation Of The 2022 Gubernatorial Campaign

The Arizona Free Enterprise Club has filed a formal complaint against Arizona State University, claiming…

2 days ago