On Monday afternoon, members of Utah’s federal delegation, along with state and county officials, stood together in opposition to an executive designation of a Bears Ears National Monument. Videos of the full press conference can be found on Facebook.
“Like any family, we have our disagreements, but we in our state know how to unite.” Senator Lee stated. “Mr. President, know this – you might choose to exercise this authority, to designate this monument to yourself on your way out the door, but please know that if you choose to do so, not only will you be harming the people of San Juan county – who overwhelmingly oppose this – but you will be tarnishing the Christmas season, you’ll be tarnishing your own legacy. And you will be sowing the seeds for the destruction of the thing you wish to create right now, because we will use every tool in our arsenal to undo what you are doing by designating this monument.”
Senator Lee continued, “I know that’s not what you want, Mr. President. And I know that what you want is not to harm the people of the state of Utah. I know that you, Mr. President, do not want to undermine the religious interests of the Native Americans who reside in San Juan county to whom this land carries great significance. Mr. President, we beg of you, do not do this.”
