AMO President Willie Barrere and Legislative Consultant for AMO and AMOS Brenda Otterson greet Congressman Salud Carbajal, the recipient of the 2026 Salute to Congress Award.
Congressman Salud Carbajal, the ranking member of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, highlighted the importance of the Jones Act and the entire U.S. maritime industry in accepting the Salute to Congress Award for 2026 on May 6 in Arlington, Va.
The award is presented each year to a member of Congress for their strong support of the U.S.-flag fleet and American maritime industry by the International Propeller Club of the United States. This year, Rep. Carbajal (D-CA) took the opportunity to address the present threat to the Jones Act and discuss several crucial roles served by the domestic industry and U.S. fleet.
“The Jones Act seems to have become a scapegoat for the issue of the day. And the loudest opponents are usually the ones who have the most to gain by supplanting American ships and American workers with foreign ships and foreign workers,” Rep. Carbajal said.
“But that is why I’m here – to tell you the Jones Act is here, and it’s here to stay,” he stated. “The Jones Act works best for the American people when we don’t sideline its most important features. That’s why we’re currently considering ways to prevent broad and open-ended waivers from being issued now and in the future.
Congratulating Congressman Carbajal were AMO President Willie Barrere, AMO Assistant Vice President for Government Relations Alaina Carouge, AMO Deep Sea Vice President Jeff Richards and AMO Secretary-Treasurer Bob Rice.
“Anyone who understands business knows the importance of certainty. Certainty is our best friend,” he said. “The President’s recent 150-day waiver does just the opposite. I believe that Congress needs to strengthen the Jones Act and spur, rather than discourage, investment in the industry.
“Throughout my time in Congress, I have been committed to protecting the Jones Act, revitalizing the U.S.-flag fleet and ensuring our ports remain competitive. Moving forward, I am committed to strengthening a vibrant employment base for our maritime workforce. The Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference laws are vital to ensure business for the U.S.-flag fleet and U.S. shipyards so they can continue to employ highly trained and qualified mariners and shipyard workers.
“Federal support programs must be protected and strengthened,” he said. “If the playing field is leveled, I have no doubt that American workers can compete internationally. Through the SHIPS Act and the Maritime Action Plan, momentum exists to meaningfully grow shipyards, ports and the domestic and international fleets and associated workforces.
“There is no better time than now to enact meaningful legislation that positions the United States as a maritime powerhouse once again.”
During his presentation, Rep. Carbajal pointed out all elements of the American maritime industry were represented by those in attendance.
“What you do is so vitally important for our country,” he said.
“Together you represent and provide employment for hundreds of thousands of mariners, shipyard workers and longshore workers. You ensure that America can reliably carry American commerce and we’re not beholden to vessels owned by foreign interests. You are an integral part of our national security by providing vital sealift capacity. You operate small and large shipyards that build and maintain Navy and Coast Guard vessels. And you work at our ports – you keep our shelves stocked and our economy moving.”
He cited the list of senators and congressional representatives who have previously received the award, dating back to 1985. He noted the bipartisan nature of those in Congress who support the U.S. maritime industry.
“There is a reason for that. U.S. maritime issues are not Republican; they’re not Democrat issues; they are bipartisan American issues,” he said.
“I’ve been proud to champion the maritime industry, not just on behalf of the people in this room, but for everyday Americans who haven’t heard of and don’t know the important service you provide,” Rep. Carbajal said.
“Quite frankly, there is nothing more bipartisan or more American than a robust United States maritime industry.”