Schweikert and Ciscomani Team Up with Dem Reps. Titus and Cohen to Form Wild Horse Caucus

By Matthew Holloway |

A new caucus has emerged in the U.S. House of Representatives aimed at conserving and ensuring the humane treatment of wild horses. Officially named the ‘Congressional Wild Horse Caucus,’ it was announced on Thursday. Co-chaired by Republican Congressmen David Schweikert and Juan Ciscomani from Arizona, alongside Democrat Representatives Dina Titus of Nevada and Steve Cohen of Tennessee, the caucus plans to advocate for reforms in existing conservation laws.

In a statement reflecting on his upbringing, Schweikert noted, “Growing up, I had the blessing of spending much time on several ranches and farms in Arizona. My experiences have led me to serve as an advocate for humane treatment and protection of these majestic species. I’m looking forward to the conservation initiatives that will come from this caucus.”

Ciscomani highlighted the significance of wild horses and burros to Arizona’s identity. He stated, “Wild horses and burros embody the spirit and heritage of the West and deserve to be protected and treated humanely. For too long, these animals have been subject to cruel and costly roundups that remove them from their natural habitat.”

He emphasized the nonpartisan urgency of this issue, adding, “Caring for wild horses and burros is not a partisan issue. I’m proud to co-chair the bipartisan Congressional Wild Horse Caucus to promote policies like fertility control and habitat preservation.”

This inaugural caucus enjoys support from several non-profit organizations, including the American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) and the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI). Leaders from these organizations underscored the significance of the caucus’s mission.

Suzanne Roy, executive director of AWHC, remarked on the caucus’s formation as “an important step toward reforming a broken system.” She stated, “Federal wild horse policy has relied on costly and inhumane roundups that remove animals from the range. We commend the Wild Horse Caucus leaders for advocating a better, more humane way to manage our wild herds.”

Dr. Joanna Grossman, AWI’s equine program director, echoed this sentiment. “Protecting America’s wild horses and burros has always been a bipartisan issue, as these iconic animals are vital to our country’s history. For countless Americans, they represent freedom and resilience.”

She concluded, “We are grateful to Representatives Titus, Ciscomani, Schweikert, and Cohen for their leadership on this issue. The Congressional Wild Horse Caucus will help ensure these beloved animals are protected for generations.”

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.