I see no reason for Commissioner Wecker to resign. She has been a strong advocate for our fish and wildlife resources for over a decade. Obviously, some folks don't appreciate the work and responsibilities faced by the Commission, who are working for all users of our state's fish and wildlife resources. I'd like to think that our Commissioners would not want to leave their post with the time left on their appointment without cause. I'm inclined to think the pressure is going up to and then coming out of the Governor's office.

In response to eyeFISH, if there was "cause" for removal then no vote would be necessary by the Senate. See the RCWs posted below:


RCW 43.06.070
Removal of appointive officers.
The governor may remove from office any state officer appointed by him or her not liable to impeachment, for incompetency, misconduct, or malfeasance in office.
[2009 c 549 § 5017; 1965 c 8 § 43.06.070. Prior: 1893 c 101 § 1; RRS § 10988.]


RCW 43.06.080
Removal of appointive officers — Statement of reasons to be filed.
Whenever the governor is satisfied that any officer not liable to impeachment has been guilty of misconduct, or malfeasance in office, or is incompetent, he or she shall file with the secretary of state a statement showing his or her reasons, with his or her order of removal, and the secretary of state shall forthwith send a certified copy of such order of removal and statement of causes by registered mail to the last known post office address of the officer in question.
[2009 c 549 § 5018; 1965 c 8 § 43.06.080. Prior: 1893 c 101 § 2; RRS § 10989.]


If there is "no cause", then there are two options available to the Governor/politicians. One is the letter of resignation that gives the politicians their "cover". The second is a public hearing and vote by the Senate, at the request of the Governor's office, on whether or not to keep the appointee in office. The second option takes away their "cover".


Contacts with your Senator and the Governor's office in support of Commissioner Wecker could turn the tide.