Some advocacy groups and certain commissioners claim they’re being targeted for exercising their free speech—feeling left out of policy discussions, feeling threatened. Meanwhile, for years, sportsmen have watched opportunities disappear: spring bear season cut, predator policies reshaped around the demands of a small vocal minority claiming to speak for the general public. Families who rely on wild game, and hunters who engage with wildlife as part of their way of life, have been dismissed—labeled “extremist trophy hunters.” Things haven’t gone our way in Washington for a long time.
Evidence is clear in records from the governor’s office and the commission, recent policy changes, and voting histories—including a professed former 6-member voting alliance. The groups now claiming they are being shut out and bullied cheered on the very changes that hurt our community.
Sportsmen need to know who actually appears to be working against their way of life—and how to respond. That doesn’t mean we condone interacting with anyone in a harassing or aggressive way. You can call out actions and policies that harm your traditions and your food sources.
When CCW and other sportsmen speak up—organize, criticize, challenge narratives, or share information about advocacy groups and their funding—that isn’t harassment. That’s participating in the same public process they use. Yes, people whose lives and livelihoods are affected may react strongly. That doesn’t mean anyone should be threatened—but backlash is part of participating in public debate.
Free speech protects everyone. It does not shield anyone from scrutiny. It does not protect false claims. And it does not guarantee a lack of pushback from those affected.
Let me be clear: our organization does not condone threats or intimidation.
But we will push back on policies, false narratives, and conduct that threaten our traditions, our food sources, and our role in wildlife management. We will set the record straight when claims are untrue or misleading. We will share information about opposing groups so our community understands what is happening.
If advocacy groups can file lawsuits, lobby for commissioner appointments, campaign to remove agency leadership, and push to take away opportunities—then sportsmen can speak just as loudly in response.
That isn’t silencing.
That’s democracy working both ways.
