2018

Congressman Jack Bergman (R-MI)

Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI, 7th from left) accepts his award as Great Lakes Legislator of the Year. Rep. Bergman has quickly become recognized as a leader on Great Lakes and Seaway issues.  This reflects that his district fronts on three of the five Great Lakes: Superior, Michigan and Huron.  GLTMF is especially grateful that Rep. Bergman spoke directly to President Trump about the need for a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.  Within hours of Congressman Bergman talking to the President, our nation’s leader publicly declared his support for fixing the Soo Locks. Congressman Bergman’s commitment to adequate U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking resources is another reason for his selection. When heavy ice covers the Lakes, the resumption of the iron ore trade and overseas exports of grain from the Lakes largest grain-shipping ports will be delayed. Rep. Bergman is fully supportive of building another heavy icebreaker to help the MACKINAW and other icebreakers keep commerce moving under even the most trying conditions.