Newhouse Statement on Court Order Impacting Columbia River System Operations

February 26, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement regarding U.S. District Court Judge Michael Simon's ruling in the Columbia River System Operations (CRSO) litigation: “Our dams remain under attack. This latest ruling increasing spill throughout the year will harm salmon populations while straining our electric grid. Once again, environmental activists are using judicial allies to threaten our hydroelectric system, which provides clean, baseload energy to millions in our region. These vital pieces of infrastructure allow irrigation and navigation for farmers, their commodities, and many other products that move on the rivers. The dams and salmon can, and do, coexist, and I remain committed to ensure the system has the resources needed to improve fish passage at lower spill levels.” Issues : Energy Hydropower and Water Rights