WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Coast Guard, Maritime, and Fisheries, will convene a subcommittee hearing on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., to examine opportunities and challenges facing the growth of the blue economy, including the role of federal investments, public-private partnership, and coastal communities. The blue economy spans industries such as seafood and mariculture, tourism, shipping, and ocean technology, all of which contribute significantly to U.S. economic competitiveness, job creation and national security.
This hearing will also highlight the Trump administration’s priorities within this important economic sphere.
Upon announcing the hearing, Senator Sullivan said: “Alaska—and America’s—Blue Economy is entering a new era of growth and opportunity. Our fisheries, shipyards, ports, maritime infrastructure, and coastal communities are not only driving our economies, but are pillars of our national security and global competitiveness. For Alaska and coastal states across the country, the ocean is a critical resource and way of life that has supported generations of families, sustains millions of jobs, drives critical industries like tourism, fishing, and global supply chains, and anchors maritime communities at the forefront of our national defense. This hearing is an opportunity to highlight how federal investments, public-private partnerships, and strong policies can ensure the United States advances our nation’s economic growth and national security. I look forward to hearing from our witnesses, including stakeholders, business leaders and innovators about how Congress can continue supporting sustainable growth, build maritime capacity, and ensuring Alaska and America remain a global maritime leader.”
Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) said: “Senator Sullivan’s leadership has been instrumental in ensuring global U.S. dominance within the Blue Economy. His work has been helpful for Texas, whose ports generate over $700 billion in economic value. With more than 360 miles of coastline and communities that depend on waterfronts, fisheries, and maritime commerce, supporting the continued growth and success of Texas’s coastal economies is of the utmost importance.”
Witnesses:
- Tommy Sheridan, Director, Alaska Blue Economy Center, University of Alaska, Fairbanks
- Jeremy Woodrow, Executive Director, Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute
- Nathan Wardwell, Managing Partner, JOA Survey LLC
An additional witness may be announced at a later date.
Hearing Details:
WHAT: Subcommittee hearing titled, “The Blue Economy: Advancing American Fisheries, Maritime Industry, and Coastal Economies”
DATE: Tuesday, June 2, 2026
TIME: 10:00 a.m. ET
LOCATION: Committee Hearing Room, Russell 253
LIVESTREAM: The hearing will stream live on the committee website and YouTube.
MEDIA: Reporters interested in attending should contact their respective media gallery to RSVP.
- Senate Daily Press: 202-224-0241 or senate_press_gallery@saa.senate.gov
- Senate Periodical Press: 202-224-0265 or periodicals@saa.senate.gov
- Senate Photographers: 202-224-6548 or press_photo@saa.senate.gov
- Senate Radio/TV: 202-224-6421
###