BREAKING: Lawsuit Filed Against WDFW Leadership
A federal lawsuit was filed yesterday against WDFW Director Kelly Susewind and Deputy Director Amy Windrope by Washington Wildlife First, animal rights attorney Claire Loebs Davis, and Commissioner Lorna Smith.
We have never been more disgusted by these groups.
This lawsuit claims WDFW leadership retaliated against critics and violated First Amendment rights.
But here’s what doesn’t sit right:
A sitting commissioner is now suing the director and deputy director, BOTH, individually AND in their official roles
At the same time, that commissioner is aligned with and participating in a lawsuit alongside Washington Wildlife First and Animal & Earth Advocates attorney Claire Loebs Davis — who has built a career challenging WDFW, representing groups like Wild Fish Conservancy and Washington Wildlife First, and opposing many hunting and management policies.
That alone raises serious concerns.
In our view, this situation appears to align with — and may reinforce — concerns that have been raised for months about coordination and potential conflicts of interest between advocacy groups and commission activity.
From our perspective, these individuals and organizations have been at the center of efforts opposing traditional hunting opportunities in Washington — including the spring bear hunt, which Washington Wildlife First has publicly highlighted as a result of its advocacy.
There is documented funding tied to Jody Allen’s Wild Lives Foundation to Davis’ organizations — raising additional questions, in our view, about influence and direction of wildlife policy.
So…
• Is this really about free speech — or advancing a broader agenda?
• What does it mean when a commissioner is working alongside groups suing the agency she helps govern?
• Does this reinforce concerns about potential bias?
And it’s hard to see how Lorna Smith looks like a positive asset to the commission in the eyes of the Governor — especially with an active investigation just days from wrapping up.
We wish the Director and Deputy Director the best and will continue to advocate for justice for the Governor’s Office.
Expect more from us on this Lawsuit soon.
