U.S. Representatives Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Pete Aguilar met with pulp and paperworkers at the AWPPW Hall in Longview on August 4, 2026, to discuss labor support and the economic future of the regional timber industry.

The meeting follows the closure of the Nippon Dynawave mill in Longview, an event that has prompted ongoing discussions regarding mill safety and the stability of manufacturing jobs in Southwest Washington. According to reporting by KLOG, the representatives spoke with union leaders about securing durable jobs for millworkers across the Third Congressional District.

Bill Sauters Jr., identified as the Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers (AWPPW) Washington State Area Representative, stated that the discussion focused on finding solutions for the industry.

Our members don’t expect all the answers, but they do expect to be heard. Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Representative Pete Aguilar took the time to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and discuss real solutions. That kind of partnership gives our members confidence that the future of Southwest Washington’s pulp and paper industry matters in Congress.

Gluesenkamp Perez represents Washington’s Third District, which includes Cowlitz County. Aguilar represents California’s 33rd District and was identified by KLOG as the chair of the House Democratic Caucus.

The meeting took place on the same day as the Washington state primary election. As previously reported by Columbia Countercurrent on August 5, 2026, Gluesenkamp Perez is the incumbent representative for the Third Congressional District and has advanced to the November general election following that vote.

Source: U.S. Reps Aguilar and Gluesenkamp Perez at Longview AWPPW—KLOG 100.7 News