As set out in our complaint, Susewind and Windrope used their authority and public agency resources to target Commissioner Smith, Claire Loebs Davis, and WW1 because they criticized agency leadership, challenged its policies, and advocated for science-based, ethical, and accountable wildlife governance. Susewind and Windrope directed staff to search communications, compile records, and construct baseless, defamatory accusations of “collusion” between commissioners and wildlife advocates based on protected speech and association. Then, they used those accusations to push for investigations and the removal of dissenting commissioners. 

This is exactly the pattern at the center of our Not My WDFW campaign. For years, we have documented how agency leadership elevates a narrow set of consumptive interests while sidelining the values, concerns, and voices of most Washingtonians. This lawsuit shows how far that dynamic has gone: when those broader public values are asserted—through science, advocacy, or oversight—they are treated as a threat to be managed, rather than a mandate to be respected.

It also reveals a deeper values gap within agency leadership. Advocacy for stronger wildlife protections, accountability, and transparency is treated not as a reflection of public priorities, but as something suspect. That response reflects an entrenched view that wildlife policy should continue to serve a narrow, traditional user group—rather than evolve to reflect broader public values and scientific concerns.

Susewind—and, by extension, Windrope and their team—embodies this deeper problem. His leadership reflects and reinforces an agency that is widely out of step with the public it is meant to serve, and his response to growing scrutiny makes clear that meaningful reform will be impossible under his direction.

Unfortunately, our lawsuit cannot remove the Director from his position. That responsibility lies with those entrusted to oversee the agency: the Fish & Wildlife Commission, the Legislature, and the Governor. If we want real change, those leaders must act. We need a full and transparent investigation into Susewind’s conduct and decisive action to restore accountability at WDFW.

We invite you to explore the materials on this page, review the evidence, and take action. Sign our petition calling for Susewind’s removal, and help ensure that Washington’s wildlife agency serves the public and wildlife with integrity.