Fishing leaders in New Bedford found a good listener Wednesday in Republican Candidate for Senate Gabriel Gomez.

Gomez met with industry representatives for an hour to learn about the industry.

Seafood Auction President Richie Canastra says federal regulations have become more drastic in recent years, putting fishermen out of work.

He says ten years ago, there were more than 2,000 active fishing boats in the Northeast --- now the number is 450.

Gomez told reporters afterward, he was blown away by the stories.....

Gomez told the fishing representatives, if he's elected next month, the industry will have an ally in Washington, and someone they can talk to.

As for federal disaster aid for fishermen, Gomez says if there is an emergency in the industry, and it appears there is, he would support disaster funding for fishermen.

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