The Warren Sun

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 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 Representatives Quigley, Bergman, and Kaptur's partnership in leading this effort.”

Co-signers shared their views on this initiative:

"Investing in modern icebreakers for the Great Lakes is crucial for maintaining commerce flow, ensuring safe navigation, and supporting local economies reliant 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 infrastructure needed to keep goods moving, communities thriving, and our nation safe," said 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 building 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 Arctic dominance with Russia and China while keeping our nation competitive both economically and geopolitically,” stated Rep. Mike Quigley (IL-05).

“The Great Lakes are critical to our nation’s commerce; keeping them open during winter months is essential not only economically but also for community safety. The ICE Pact is welcome news for our region; I urge strengthening Coast Guard presence and capabilities as this collaborative effort begins,” commented Rep. Lisa McClain (MI-09).

“In Michigan, reliance on the Great Lakes as an economic asset is significant. Prioritizing them within ICE Pact means replacing aging tugboats with heavy-duty icebreakers necessary for shipping,” remarked Rep. John Moolenaar (MI-02).

“The Great Lakes are an economic engine; every winter inadequate icebreaking disrupts supply chains costing jobs. Incorporating them into ICE Pact protects industries ensuring competitiveness," urged Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10).

Click here to view full version of letter.

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