Education: What do you think should be done to improve public education in the state?
Mike Cronk (R)
We need to focus our attention on outcomes of students. Our focus must always be the students. Similar actions needs to be taken like the the legislation passed for the Reads Act. We must have baselines and achievement goals in place for all our students.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
A permanent increase to the Base Student Allocation that keeps up with inflation is critical to improve public education. This past session, Republicans and Democrats in the State Senate came together to take meaningful action to improve Alaska’s public schools. I support both the policies and the approach. I will continue to put political party aside to find common ground solutions.
Bert Williams (AIP)
Cut it back to the core – reading, writing, math, and critical thinking. Everything else is noise and worse than useless. If the school systems would like more funds for teaching they might consider cutting the grossly over-sized administrative portions of their budgets. If someone would like to argue that administrators keeping their jobs is more important than teaching children they are free to, but I’m also free to call them a wretch.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
As a former School Board President, I believe reliable funding is critical for our schools, districts and teachers to plan and provide high quality education for our students. I also believe we must not overlook measures to enhance accountability and ensuring education dollars are effectively contributing to improving outcomes for our youth.
In Alaska, we need to deliver the best learning opportunities for our students, which includes a local approach utilizing brick and mortar neighborhood schools, charter schools, and correspondence school learning options. I support moderate increases to the Base Student Allocation (BSA), particularly in the face of rising costs and evolving needs due to record inflation.
Lastly, I am a strong advocate for enhancing accountability measures within Alaska’s education systems. It is critical that we set clear, measurable benchmarks to monitor progress and ensure that our educational investments yield tangible improvements in student achievement and overall educational excellence.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The number one thing that the state can do is to have predictable, stable, substantial and forward-looking funding of the K12 budget in the BSA for school districts. That budget should be focused on early in the session and passed so that school districts that create their budgets on school-calendar years can do so before the end of the May graduation period.
Maxine Dibert (D)
As someone who taught in Fairbanks public schools for 23 years, there is no policy issue more important to me than ensuring our students are successful and our public schools are a crucial component for that success. For many of my students, school was the most stable and consistent part of their day. Every single student I taught had a family that loved them deeply. Each day some students arrived well-nourished and academically focused, others struggled greatly. Every educator I worked with over the past two decades poured themselves into their students and their classrooms. What became clear to me through two decades of teaching and one of the main factors that motivated me to run for office, was the sad truth that we could be doing a lot more for our students. I can’t stand by and continue to watch class sizes grow, programs get cut, and good teachers leave. We need to invest in our schools, and that means substantial funding that keeps up with inflation. The state of Alaska has failed to do so for over a decade. Our schools need predictability and consistency if they are to meet the needs of families and students across Alaska. We need to raise the BSA significantly. It is our constitutional duty as a state.
Bart LeBon (R)
Elevate expectations and require performance accountability
Gary Damron (D)
We need to acknowledge the Governor has not made educating all Alaskan children his priority. We then need to elect a house and senate who will prioritize our kids as the natural resource they are and provide the tools for them, their parents and teachers to make them successful.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Continue to focus on ‘read by 9’, correspondence and charter schools.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
I believe it’s essential to increase the Base Student Allocation (BSA) to address the escalating overhead costs as inflation erodes the value of our dollar. Children should not bear the brunt of the challenges we face.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Focus on core education like Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Reading. Promote Sports and Music and always encourage Parental Involvement.
Ashley Carrick (D)
One of my top priorities is preserving access to education and higher education in our state, and ensuring that the opportunities that I had available growing up are still there for the next generations of Alaskans. We need to stabilize our education system, which is best accomplished through adequate funding and resolving the teacher retention crisis.
The most direct and equal way to support all of Alaska’s students is through a permanent increase in the Base Student Allocation, which will allow our state to fulfill our constitutional obligation of establishing and maintaining our education system. In Fairbanks our school district is facing a $28 million budget deficit and to balance its budget they need a BSA increase of $1413 per student. I offered an amendment to provide a permanent $1413 BSA, but unfortunately this amendment fell two votes short. I am committed to working with my colleagues to find a solution to this education funding issue and am open to strengthening opportunity for all of Alaska’s students. This year the budget included a one-time $680 per student increase to the BSA, which will help for the upcoming school year. Next year the Legislature needs to pass a permanent increase to education funding, as well as stabilize and re-envision our correspondence school program following the recent court decision that much of our correspondence school program is an unconstitutional avenue for state funds to be used for private and religious education.
Finally, student learning experiences are drastically and negatively impacted by the teacher retention crisis and the high class sizes our districts see as a result. To resolve the teacher retention crisis we need to pay teachers better, and reform our retirement system by passing legislation like SB 88, of which I was proud to co-sponsor in my first term.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
The Alaska Reads Act has already started to see positive effects in public education and the goal of reading on grade level by third grade. Continuing to support this act over the next several years is critical. Allowing parents and students to seek out what education model works best for their learning should also be pursued; not all students learn the same way, we need to allow them choices in education style.
Pamela Goode (R)
Clearly, options and choices that best fit the desires of the parents and the uniqueness of each child is what is best. This opens doors for teachers to exercise creativity in teaching along with releasing energy that produces motivation and incentives for both the teachers and students. There must always be the options of homeschooling (correspondence or independent), charter schools, online classes, brick and mortar, etc.
For a child to learn, they must have a desire to want to learn. This will vary from child to child along with the culture and way of life they are being raised in. Find out what encourages a child to learn. A system that takes this into consideration and provides the freedom of choice is one that will produce the best outcome for each child and the best outcome overall.
If children learn well the proven basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, the fundamentals and history of the foundation of our country and state, and are taught the rewards of short-term and long-term goal attainment, this will carry children throughout their life. With this knowledge and those skills, children can dream big dreams and achieve them with resilience and a can-do attitude on their own.
Create the vision and develop an education system that offers this statewide. Then make a plan to incrementally achieve the vision, and work the plan with attainable goals and measurable progress.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
Our school system is facing a funding crisis. Around the state, schools are closing and excellent, qualified educators are leaving the state due to unstable school funding, poor employee benefits, and a high cost of living. Schools are cornerstones of communities and we must make sure they have the resources and staffing to not just survive, but thrive, so they can provide our state’s children the best education possible to prepare them for college and/or vocational/technical schools. Alaska is currently the only state in the country that does not provide a pension for teachers. If we can provide our schools with enough stable funding, return to a pension retirement system for our educators, and work to reduce the cost of living, I believe our state’s education system will thrive.
Dana Mock (R)
Stable, adequate, and predictable state funding should allow school districts to maintain small enough class sizes so students can learn and teachers can do their job. We should support local and business-led efforts related to Career and Technical Education to meet workforce needs. The state should continue working to improve teacher recruitment and retention by fixing our broken retirement system.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
With 53 school districts in Alaska, we must consider consolidating and cutting administration costs so that more funding can be allocated to the classroom. Inflation costs in insurance, energy and transportation are crushing our districts. Student and parental engagement are at an all-time low for brick-and-mortar schools. I would like to see DEED shift our educational model to competency based-learning, with a targeted investment in Alaska-specific career incentivized curricula. If public schools bring back exceptional in-person courses and move away from online curricula, students will return and scores will improve.
Cole Snodgress (R)
In the private sector you pay for responsibility. The positions in education that are 1-2 steps above the teachers need to be held responsible for how they use the public funds, the utilization of the teachers, admin, and support. We need to see an increase on the return of the current public investment.
Fishing Industry: What, if any, change would you make to state law to support the fishing industry and Alaskans who are dependent on fish harvests?
Mike Cronk (R)
The most important fish is the one in the smokehouse or the freezer. Our focus must be always on the resource and getting the fish upriver to spawn. Our substance users must be the number one priority of the state.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
My District and all of our Interior Alaska community is deeply suffering from depleted fisheries — fish support jobs, communities, and have sustained people here for thousands of years. The Alaska Constitution requires that our natural resources are managed for the maximum benefit of all Alaskans. I support ongoing state funding to test the genetics of intercepted salmon in Area M and to make provisions so that more fish can make it upriver. Being able to put food on the table for our families is my priority.
Bert Williams (AIP)
Sane management of our fisheries would start with barring non-Alaskan vessels and entities from being involved with the catching or processing of our fish. We are seeing a marvelous resource over-harvested so non-Alaskan entities can profit and take those profits out of the state. Commercial fishing needs to be cut back dramatically so subsistence fishers can subsist and fish population can recover – or the state government can be honest and admit they don’t care about subsistence fishers.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
As a lifelong hunter, fisherman and sportsman, I strongly believe in science-based fisheries and wildlife management, particularly as they pertain to harvest levels and the sustainable management of our species. I am familiar with a number of challenges currently taking place within our fisheries communities, including the alarming decline in salmon populations on a number of Alaska rivers, challenges related to illegal Russian seafood imports, and an ongoing global seafood market collapse. As your State Senator, I will work closely with all stakeholders, including local communities, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, the Governor and the congressional delegation, to find solutions that help our treasured fish populations rebound and keep our fisheries viable, abundant and strong.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The commercial fishing industry already has too much influence in federal and international waters to the detriment of those personal use and subsistence users who live on the river and depend on the fish for their food, commerce and culture.
Maxine Dibert (D)
I will continue to advocate for legislation that balances economic interests with the needs of Alaskans who rely on our fish to have food through the winter, and for the preservation of their culture. People of Alaska have relied on fish for thousands of years and we have to protect this resource. I strongly support research and science-based management and it should be braided with indigenous knowledge to prevent further decline and to maintain healthy ecosystems.
Bart LeBon (R)
Any proposed change to state law should have as its intended outcome an enhanced harvest opportunity for state citizens versus outside fishing interests. How the Legislature accomplishes that goal is the ongoing challenge now and into the future
Gary Damron (D)
I would continue to consult our fish and game experts, both state and federal and our congressional delegation to see what powers the legislature has at its disposal to assist. It might include a law, or funding. I am willing to do whatever we can to help our fishing industry.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
I represent an interior district, so I am mostly concerned about rebuilding runs in the Yukon drainages.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
I’m interested in implementing policy and technology to reduce bycatch and the resulting waste. Fishing is a way of life for Alaskans, and commercial operations depend on stability of the population, so allowing for a sustainable harvest and ensuring minimal industrial impact on their habitat is imperative. When supporting development projects, I would take into account environmental impact studies and use subject matter experts as a resource to make those decisions.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Pass legislation like HB 169, “An act relating to certain fish; and establishing a fisheries rehabilitation permit” this will help increase wild fish to localized areas. Hold the fishing industry accountable on things like bi-catch limits.
Ashley Carrick (D)
Thousands of Alaskans, especially here in the Interior along the Yukon and Tanana rivers, rely on the yearly harvest of fish for food. To that end, protecting subsistence fishing rights, and the availability of fish for subsistence use to all our communities in rural Interior Alaska, is a major priority for our region and the state.
We must protect the rights of Alaskans who have stewarded our resources and those communities who have relied on these resources for thousands of years and who continue to rely on these resources by ensuring enough fish for everyone here in Alaska. Following adequate protections for subsistence and personal use fishing by Alaskans, the sport fishing and the commercial fishing industry should continue to be considered and supported by the state, as many of these opportunities represent local small business developments that support our communities.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
This is an area I don’t know a lot about, but I think getting a better balance between commercial fisheries and sport fishing fisheries needs to be researched and a better balance found between the two. It seems as thought the fisheries in the rivers and even in the sound are becoming harder and harder to catch good quality fish consistently, that affects those Alaskans that like to be in the outdoors and catch fish and those that depend on those fish to live throughout the year.
Pamela Goode (R)
Alaska Department of Fish and Game have many employees who are responsible for managing our fisheries for the maximum benefit of the people, based on the sustained yield principle as stated in the Alaska Constitution. If legislation is necessary for them to better perform their duties for the people of Alaska, it is their responsibility to inform legislators of what those changes need to be. They are the paid experts. If it is found that they are making poor decisions or not performing responsibly in their duties to the best of their ability, then they should be held accountable. Negligence, incompetence, and irresponsibility can not go unchallenged when dealing with a resource that is critical to Alaska, Alaskan families, and the Alaskan subsistence diet and lifestyle.
There is also increased concern and discussion about the waste currently taking place in by-catch. This issue should be seriously looked into as soon as possible and put to rest if it is found to be a non-issue. Continued excessive waste of any kind in Alaska can lead to long-term irreversible consequences.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
We have a salmon crisis on the Yukon. For years, our communities have seen dwindling salmon runs–because of this, our families have not been able to exercise our rights to subsistence or to practice our ways of life and pass them on to our children. Now, a 7-year moratorium has been passed for Yukon Chinook. This crisis represents a failure of our state to adequately manage our salmon fisheries, and a failure to serve our rural communities. Fishing is a way of life that is core to our communities’ physical, social, cultural, mental, and spiritual health. Salmon stocks are declining around the state. We need immediate and transformative action to protect our salmon and ways of life for future generations. Our state needs to uphold its promise of subsistence access by prioritizing subsistence users above commercial interests, and restoring our salmon. Our state needs to take every possible action to reduce bycatch from the federally-managed Bering Sea industrial trawl fleets, including by pushing for more Alaskan, tribal, and non-industry representation on the North Pacific Fisheries Management Council. Additionally, state agencies, including the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, need to work more closely with rural communities, tribes, and Native organizations towards co-management of our state fisheries.
Dana Mock (R)
Illegal fishing by Chinese and Russian fleets is harming Yukon River salmon at sea, contributing to fewer fish returning up the river. We need to support enforcement of the law so Alaskans can harvest Alaska salmon. I also support ensuring we can staff key positions to get accurate fish counts and harvest fish when we can. Under-staffing of ADFG can mean we undercount fish and don’t allow harvests that are science-based.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
Alaska’s fisheries vary widely in geography, species and timing. Over the last two decades, we have seen increased variability in shellfish, groundfish, and anadromous fish stocks leading to significant challenges for managers. With the most recent Endangered Species Act petition for Gulf of Alaska Chinook salmon, there is work to be done to prove that Alaska is doing everything possible to ensure the sustainability of our Alaskan stocks. No single change will improve Alaska’s fisheries for all users across the board, although the State may want to consider improving salmon escapement goals to include quality of fish instead of just a number. Regardless of Alaska law, we are beholden to entities such as the North Pacific Fisheries Management Council and influence from Russian pink salmon biomass production. The State should continue to engage with the NPFMC, and work to appoint Alaskan members committed to the long-term conservation of all our fisheries.
Cole Snodgress (R)
This is something I am laboriously learning more about.
PFD: How should the state set the amount of the Permanent Fund dividend each year?
Mike Cronk (R)
The legislature needs to solve the PFD for the future. Fighting over it year after year is so detrimental to our state. A complete fiscal plan needs to be put in place, where the pfd will have a final solution.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
The dividend should be set by a formula, not politicians. For many families the dividend is not a bonus, it’s what helps pay the bills for their family. The formula needs to give Alaskan families certainty and the largest dividend possible, while ensuring the Permanent Fund continues to grow and the State invests in education, infrastructure, and public safety.
Bert Williams (AIP)
The formula used for the last 20 years is perfectly serviceable, provided the state doesn’t steal it. The state government’s theft of the PFD money should be regarded as such by Alaskans.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
For decades, the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend was distributed based on an annual formula established in law. Although this law remains on the books, in 2016 the Alaska Supreme Court affirmed that the Dividend is subject to veto and must compete for annual funding. This has resulted in a steady and often contested annual debate on the annual PFD amount. My priority is to pay a health dividend to today’s Alaskans while protecting the Permanent Fund for future generations. I support paying as large a dividend as possible to our citizens, but I am not in favor of taxing our citizens in order to do so. We need to share the wealth, but guard our future.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The calculation for the PFD amount annually is already in statute. The state should not place the burden on the public by cutting the PFD simply to match the budget deficit as it has done the past nine years. Instead, the state should make any necessary cuts, create additional forms of revenue, inflation proof the PFD and provide the largest PFD to the public that the budget can afford.
Maxine Dibert (D)
The bipartisan fiscal working group provided a helpful framework that should be used as a starting point for a solution that can get bipartisan support. We need to end the political fight that happens every year by locking in a PFD that Alaskans can count on. That formula should provide for the largest PFD possible, while ensuring we do not overspend from the Permanent Fund, and ensuring Alaska has adequate funding of schools, public safety, and infrastructure. It is very important to the families in my district. I will work to ensure that the PFD is sustained and that it is paid out for generations so people’s children and grandchildren continue to benefit from our state’s resources.
Bart LeBon (R)
It is completely appropriate that the Governor establishes the ceiling amount by inserting into his proposed budget a dollar figure that is based upon the historic PFD formula. After that, both the House and Senate will debate & ultimately propose a PFD amount that reflects their own budget priorities subject to the final budget negotiation that would take place through the conference committee process. The PFD that is inserted into the approved conference committee budget, and subsequently approved by both the full House & Senate, should be a fiscally reasonable amount that does not require overdrawing the Earnings Reserve Account.
Gary Damron (D)
I believe the state should have a true honest discussion with Alaskans about the fiscal issues we face and the options that are available. Too many elected officials like the governor are being dishonest and it makes a real discussion difficult. The time for real to engage Alaskans and decide how we move the state forward is now and I am ready to have the discussion.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Legislature should either follow existing statute or change the statute. Dividend should be paid out of P-fund earnings.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
Life in Alaska is expensive, and I can certainly empathize with those supporting a full dividend payout. I’m concerned about the long-term impact on the state budget and potential for needing to implement an income tax to ensure stable funding with a full payout. I want to see the permanent fund remain solvent for future generations.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Permanent Fund amount should be set through the Statutory formula.
Ashley Carrick (D)
Reforming our dividend formula is an important component of a fiscal plan. Last session, I introduced HB 266 which would resolve the conflicting statutes surrounding the POMV draw on the permanent fund (responsible for 2/3rds of state revenue) and the 1982 dividend formula. This proposal would create a new formula that pays for the dividend with revenue from royalties on natural resource development. This is a beneficial model for several reasons, including decoupling fluctuating revenue from our budget discussions and giving a more honest look at our revenues. Additionally, this formula gives Alaskans a direct stake in our resource development, fulfilling Governor Hammonds vision for the dividend as a share of our resources. Per modeling from the non-partisan Legislative Finance Division, this dividend model would create budget surpluses through Fiscal Year 2028, and healthy dividends over $1500 for at least the next 10 fiscal years.
Regardless of the specific proposal that moves forward, the status quo of allowing our Legislature to decide in the annual budgeting process what amount of a Dividend we can afford is an unsustainable model that will ultimately jeopardize the long-term health of the Fund, and also which creates a climate of uncertainty that has received justified and harsh criticism from Alaskans who rely on the PFD each year.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
I don’t think this should be set by the legislature every year. We need to come up with a new formula if need be and stick to it. At some point the PFD will be no more if we keep allowing what is happening to keep happening.
Pamela Goode (R)
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
The PFD belongs to the Alaskan people and is a vital financial resource for rural and working-class families, especially with increasing costs of living. Legislators have drawn from the PFD in recent years to cover our state’s budget deficit. For the first time, we are now facing a potential shortfall in the Permanent Fund for 2025 that threatens the PFD for future generations. This is because our revenue is insufficient to cover our expenses and sustain the PFD at the same time, and we’re now taking more out of the Permanent Fund than we’re putting in. I believe that the solution to our PFD crisis is increasing revenue to balance our state budget so we can grow the Permanent Fund and increase PFD payments without cutting essential public services. We are a resource rich state and we should not have a budget deficit; I believe we need to reexamine our current tax structures, particularly surrounding our large extractive industries which are funneling Alaskan dollars out of our state. I will not support any new sources of revenue that fall primarily on working and rural Alaskans.
Dana Mock (R)
The Permanent Fund was established by Alaska voters in 1976 with a Constitutional amendment, and the legislature later established the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) to give citizens a direct stake in growth of the fund. I support growing the Permanent Fund through responsible budgeting so we can continue to pay PFDs for generations to come. Responsible budgeting now means protection of PFDs for the long term.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
The PFD should be set according to Alaska Statute. Alaskans never agreed to give up a portion of their PFD to fund State government, yet the Legislature has taken more than $13,000 from every Alaskan since 2016. This is not an equitable way to fund government, especially when it comes to the burden this places on lower income families and children.
Cole Snodgress (R)
We need to constitutionalize the PFD Formula, otherwise the amount available for distribution to eligible Alaskans will vary each year. The people’s portion of the dividend is now used to cover a deficit of the current fiscal year between the total UGF revenues available for government and the total UGF spending.
Energy: What should be done to address the pending energy crunch along the Railbelt?
Mike Cronk (R)
We passed great legislation this past session to address the rail belt and electricity. We need to do the upgrade, but we also need to work on completing the entire rail belt with the road bolt. All option need to be on the table, wind, solar, gas, coal, nuclear, hydro.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
We need to ensure reliable and affordable energy. Eliminating the pancaking of rates as energy travels along the Railbelt is a step in the right direction. We need the Railbelt to embrace a diversity of energy sources all across the grid. The State should continue to match the federal funding opportunities available for energy investment so we have the energy storage needed to support a blend of renewable and fossil fuel energy sources.
Bert Williams (AIP)
The best solution would have been the construction of a rail line to the North Slope decades previously, and the second best solution would be the construction of a North Slope rail line now. A reasonable person might suggest building another coal plant and use the waste heat to run commercial greenhouses, as is common in Eastern Europe, but reasonableness seems to have left this discussion decades previously.
Solving this solution by building out fashionable ‘renewable’ energy sources now would be incredibly foolish – solar is lackluster during peak energy demand in the winter, and global experience has shown that once wind production becomes too much (10-20%) of the grid’s supply its erratic nature is calamitous for conventional steady-state producers. This is to say nothing of the EXTREMELY poor Energy Return on Energy Investment values for solar and wind renewables. The only sensible carbon neutral answers to this problem are nuclear power generation or tidal power generated in the Cook Inlet, but the manufacturing and bureaucratic hurdles mean this will also be too late.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
Access to cheap and reliable energy continues to be a challenge across Alaska, including in Fairbanks where we pay on average more per kilowatt hour than the average Alaskan. Lowering the cost of energy, developing 21st Century energy infrastructure and fortifying the Railbelt energy supply continue to be a top priority for me and my campaign. These efforts include improving the Railbelt electrical grid, which runs from Homer to Fairbanks, capitalizing on federal infrastructure funding for energy projects like the Alaska Energy Authority grant for a 50-mile undersea power cable and a Fairbanks battery bank, taking advantage of all-of-the-above energy opportunities to augment our base energy sources, and continuing to explore the viability of larger projects like an in-state gas line, hydroelectric, wind, solar, geothermal and nuclear energy projects.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The investments in the intertie and electrical grid are a good start to get the cheapest electricity in the state to all the areas of the intertie. The state should begin investing in long-term, large scale renewable energy projects while maintaining a finite bridge with current coal and gas resources.
Maxine Dibert (D)
Our energy bills in Fairbanks are too high and they have been increasing. Lowering energy costs is a top priority of mine. It is getting to be tough for many families to even keep their homes warm in winter. I will continue to fight for an “all of the above” solution to bring reliable and affordable energy to Fairbanks. Last session we passed HB 307 which provides a greatly needed update to the state’s electricity generation and transmission system. This will enable us to modernize the Railbelt energy grid and bring in a wide array of energy sources to the generation system including natural gas, hydro, and renewables like wind and solar. Being able to diversify our sources will help lower costs to Fairbanksans and will also provide reliability. This bill was amended to exclude new power generation from state and local taxes. This exemption will reduce the cost of energy for Fairbanks residents as new sources are brought on line. I will continue to champion energy projects that bring down energy costs.
Bart LeBon (R)
Bring more Alaskan natural gas into the energy mix. It may come from the Cook Inlet or the North Slope but that should be our primary focus. Also in the energy mix would be hydro, solar, wind and coal. Working toward building an instate natural gas pipeline from the North Slope down through Fairbanks and into South Central Alaska should continue to be a high priority, an effort that is worthy of broad political support.
Gary Damron (D)
Again we have to use every tool we have to address the issue. I applaud the Senator Murkowski and Representative Peltola for supporting the Infrastructure Act allowing the legislature to apply for funding to work on the electric grid. I also would like to continue looking at renewables and an instate pipeline so all of Alaska can have cheap and available energy.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Pursue AGDC’s phased approach of in-state pipeline.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
I support building a gas line and upgrading the intertie. It’s important to support commercial and personal development of alternative energy sources throughout the state as well. Residents in the interior are facing electricity bills that have skyrocketed and solving this problem is a high priority for me.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Promote reliable and affordable energy production that lowers the cost for the consumer. Encourage resource development and search for new technologies. Upgrade transmission lines to reduce line loss and support resiliency.
Ashley Carrick (D)
Fairbanks has long suffered from extremely high costs of energy and a lack of diversification of our energy resources. I am pleased that there has been a recent, stronger focus on Railbelt reliability, sustainability, and affordability.
First of all, we need to provide all required matching funds for the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP) grant so we can make badly needed infrastructure improvements to the Railbelt and stop the current “extension cord” model that is pervasive across our energy system. We also need to bring more energy generation online to put downward pressure on the cost of energy. That is why I support an “all in” and all of the above approach to energy generation, and specifically why I support greater renewable energy like Shovel Creek Wind Farm here in Fairbanks off Murphy Dome in addition to the build out of IGU natural gas lines in the Interior.
Critically, members of the Legislature must recognize that there is no silver bullet that will solve our energy problems, and that what may work in one region or community may not be the solution in another community. Again, we need to think holistically about our energy consumption and generation needs and take advantage of the abundant energy resources available across the state.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
Looking for sustainable energy sources is critical for our state. The Copper River Valley area has large potential sustainable energy sources that could be developed. This would require an inter-tie into the rail belt system but creating redundant power along the rail belt down the Richardson Hwy and either returning under sea to Whittier and then into the rail belt or whether up the Glenn Hwy. into Sutton would create redundant power for the whole loop. There are opportunities to get clean sustainable energy our state and invest in infrastructure that really should have been done years ago.
Pamela Goode (R)
Alaska needs to continue to encourage entrepreneurial dollars to be invested into our state to bring to fruition the exportation of Alaska’s natural gas. This will bring Alaska gas to Alaskans and hopefully increase the infrastructure that will bring natural gas to more areas of Alaska.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
We need to invest in our energy infrastructure to bring down energy costs. High energy costs and overall cost of living are making it near impossible for young families to live and work in our rural communities. I support responsible oil and gas development including the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation’s proposed natural gas pipeline; natural gas is a natural byproduct of North Slope oil production and we need to be capturing this energy resource. I don’t support projects that would threaten the health and safety of our communities, or cause irreversible harm to the ecosystems and wildlife we rely on, including those that would severely impact caribou herd migration patterns. We also need to develop renewable energy infrastructure to bring down energy costs and remain an energy leader as the world slowly transitions from fossil fuels to renewables; we currently have an incredible opportunity to capture federal dollars to invest in renewable energy development. Developing renewable energy also presents an opportunity to grow our workforce and create good jobs for the next generation of Alaskans. In addition to developing new energy sources, we need to broaden and improve our energy transmission infrastructure to lower costs for our rural communities, including by tying into existing energy grids.
Dana Mock (R)
We need to improve transmission infrastructure for our communities on the grid, and support lower cost energy generation for rural communities. I support continued and expanded investment in the Renewable Energy Fund, the primary state program to lower energy costs for Interior communities off the road system. I also support working with Tanana Chiefs Conference and other partners to capture federal investment in lower-cost energy generation.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
Alaska must continue to embrace a variety of energy sources, while continuing to invest in responsible and sustainable energy projects for the future. We must support new infrastructure projects, such as the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation’s gas line from the North Slope, new Hydro-Electric projects and possibly Micro-Nuclear options as well. While solar and wind energy development are gaining steam, we must continually assess the broad impact these technologies have from maintenance costs, to mineral extraction to eventual disposal.
Cole Snodgress (R)
Repeal Government regulation to allow the free market to propose the solution. Whether it be Coal, Hydro, Nuclear, Renewables, etc. let the merit of the economics and reliability of the energy steer the conversation in addressing the energy demand.
Party differences: How would you work with legislators of different political parties to get things done in the Legislature?
Mike Cronk (R)
I have always worked across the aisle with those that hold different political views. We find the common ground on what we can work together on and get it done.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
This past legislative session, Alaska’s State Senate was led by a coalition of half Republicans and half Democrats. I have spent the past three years working in a nonpartisan fashion on the Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly. I intend to continue that practice in Juneau, and think that coming together like this is critical when our country can feel incredibly divided. Working across party lines requires good listening, recognizing our shared values, and finding a fair compromise. I will work with a bipartisan majority in the Senate to solve problems facing education, energy affordability, and public safety.
Bert Williams (AIP)
Speaking honestly, I probably wouldn’t. I am fundamentally at odds with the general status quo, and find most of what the Legislature does to be both unnecessarily time-consuming and also useless (at best) to the average Alaskan. That being the case the most I would realistically be able to do is give voice to the concerns of my constituents and vote no on most things.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
I am a lifelong Republican with a proven track record of working across party lines to deliver results for Fairbanks. As your State Senator, I am committed to working with anyone – Republican, Democrat or Independent – to do what’s right for our community, workers and families. As I reflect back on my time in public service, I am reminded of my 6 years on the Fairbanks School Board, during which we navigated challenging decisions in the face of differing viewpoints and political perspectives. In addition, as the Fairbanks Regional Director for U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, I helped foster consensus on complex community issues involving multiple stakeholders. I am a person who works to bring people together and find common ground, rather than fostering division.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
I have always prided myself on working well with others to get things done. When a person does not care who gets ‘credit’ for passage of a particular bill or idea then it is very easy to work with everyone, no matter what party, to get enough votes to pass a bill. I support the large, supermajority, bipartisan Alaska State Senate that has worked well together these past two years despite being oppositional on some social issues.
Maxine Dibert (D)
For the past two years, it’s been an honor to serve with a new generation of leadership: a generation not afraid to innovate and solve problems, not afraid to put party politics aside and work across the aisle to do whatever it takes to help Fairbanks and its people. This can only be accomplished through building bridges, which means establishing relationships based on mutual respect and understanding to find a common ground. I have strong and respectful relationships with my colleagues from all political perspectives. I truly believe if we cooperate and listen to each other we will be able to make a difference for the people of this state.
Bart LeBon (R)
During my four-years in office from 2019-2022, I built a reputation of working well with not just other members of the House but also building effective working relationships with Senators of both parties. Getting along well with others in the Legislature will be the least of my concerns if elected to the House in 2024.
Gary Damron (D)
Alaska is a small state and Alaskans work together to survive. As a state trooper I did not care what your political party was and as a representative I understand my job is not to work for a political party, but for the people of district 32. I believe as elected officials we work together for the greater good and that is what I would do.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
I focus on the merits of bills.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
I’m a collaborative leader by nature and welcome input from diverse viewpoints. I think the best solutions are those that have been thoroughly vetted, not formed in a vacuum through group-think.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Let me be Frank! The same way I worked with others last session, open and honest.
Ashley Carrick (D)
Bipartisanship is a long-standing and very important political value in Alaska, as proven by the fact that both the Senate Majority and House Majority, as well as the House Minority each include Republicans, Democrats, and Independents in their caucus. As a member of the House Minority Coalition, it is imperative that I work with my Republican colleagues, and in so doing have been able to pass several bills over the course of my first term.
By working hard and choosing to learn from each other and come together across party lines, great things can happen for our state.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
I have been on the state board of education and early development for over ten years; over 7 years as chair of the state board. I have relationships and a reputation in the legislature already. I would use those relationships and familiarity with dealing the legislators over the years to help work in both parties to get legislation through that would help Alaskans and my region that I would represent. Relationships are critical and I already have plenty of them in Juneau.
Pamela Goode (R)
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
As Alaskan people, our similarities run much deeper than our differences. We all want to live in a healthy, prosperous state. We want our children to grow up with opportunity. We want affordable living, an abundant environment, our personal freedoms protected. If we can recognize these shared goals, we can work together to achieve them. As a legislator, it would be my responsibility to serve the people of our district before any party, and that means working across party lines to get things done.
Dana Mock (R)
As a Republican who’s worked in the private sector and served on my local school board for 14 years, I have always worked with members of all parties. That is an Alaska tradition, and it is essential we put our communities and state first. We have always had bipartisan legislative caucuses, and the Bush Caucus has almost always been bipartisan. I will work with anyone who will join me in advocating for our Interior communities.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
We all want the best for our children, and we all want responsible and sustainable development for our State. These are the basic connections we all share. If we can find common ground on some of the most basic issues, then we can attempt to collaborate on a more comprehensive plan to improve the economic outlook for Alaska for the long-term.
Cole Snodgress (R)
Issues needing resolve will attract legislators from any side to come together to create a workable solution. Each issue brought forth needs to be judged, discussed, and debated based upon its merit not its initiator.
Public employees: What should the state do to improve retention of public employees, including teachers?
Mike Cronk (R)
Bottom line is we need to pay more. If we can’t find a cost neutral plan for defined benefits (we are still 7.4 billion $$ in debt currently and this has first draw on any funds), than we must up our pay to our employees.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
Our fire fighters, teachers, and police officers have all been telling us the solution: returning to a defined benefit retirement plan. We need to provide competitive salaries and benefits that will allow our public employees to raise their families and grow old here while being able to afford to heat their homes and put food on the table. I would join the Republicans and Democrats in the State Senate that have put forward legislation to bring back a defined benefit.
Bert Williams (AIP)
The simple answer is that if the state wants to retain public employees they need to pay them more, and to do that they need to fire public employees. While the state government’s dream of having an entire population of state employees is a pleasant one, it is not based in reality. If the state can not afford to pay their employees well they need to fire employees and cut spending until they can.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
Improving employee retention and recruitment, and addressing the massive shortages in our state workforce, will take a holistic approach through collaboration with local, state, and federal partners. As we work to address these challenges, we should be willing to examine all options available to us, including efforts to improve access to affordable housing, modest increases to our state’s retirement match and examining programs like paid family leave – which have been enacted in Democrat and Republican-led states. Ultimately, I believe it is our responsibility to consider programs that keep Alaska competitive while also being strong stewards of state dollars.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
Teachers and other employees need a defined benefit retirement system to retain them past that magical five-year mark. Teachers and other public employees, especially law enforcement and court system employees, also need more respect for the professionals that they are and praised for the constant public abuse and shaming that they receive nearly daily. The employees should also be valued by receiving a contract that is fair, pays well, provides benefits and allows for upward mobility and advancement.
Maxine Dibert (D)
When I studied to become a teacher over 20 years ago, I was told that I should consider other professions because getting a teaching job was so competitive that I might wait years for a job. Today, we are facing critical shortages of teachers. It’s not a mystery why: our teachers, fire fighters, police officers, and other public servants are not being offered competitive benefits, including a livable retirement like the great majority of other states offer. Every year, I see young, promising teachers leave our districts in pursuit of better benefits elsewhere. Our families, our students, and our entire communities are paying the price for this outmigration and our inability to attract essential employees. It’s time for the state to fix this problem by offering benefits that are on par with other states. We need efficient and effective schools and public safety. Without the brightest and best teachers, police, and firefighters, I fear our working families and our businesses alike will suffer.
Bart LeBon (R)
We could look to enhance salaries, benefits and retirement contributions. But anything we do needs to make fiscal sense as we can not spend money the state does not have.
Gary Damron (D)
I believe the state should go back to a defined benefits system. We are bleeding employees all over state government and it has cost us dearly in the department of Health, Administration, Natural Resources and many more. The state is losing around $92 million a year in training, recruiting, overtime and incentive bonus. We can not continue on this path and the solutution the bi partsion Senate proposed seemed like an avenue we should explore. It was disappointing the House of Representatives last year refused to even look at the proposal leaving the state still struggling to keep employees past years.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Need to focus well designed employee compensation package as well as other ways to improve job satisfaction.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
I advocate for implementing current best practices when seeking solutions to pressing issues. As the sole state offering only a defined contribution plan to public safety employees and teachers, Alaska faces challenges in retaining teachers, firefighters, and law enforcement personnel who migrate to other states. The costs associated with high turnover rates and the impact on service quality can be substantial. Therefore, it is time to reassess our strategy and consider adopting more effective retention measures to ensure a stable and competent workforce in Alaska.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Keeping politics out of the workplace would be a good start. Allow more training time for employees to understand retirement programs. Promote healthy work environments for employees and families.
Ashley Carrick (D)
In Alaska the public and private sectors are inextricably linked. Staggering levels of employee vacancies in our public sector have lead many Alaskans without the services they need to support their professional and private business interests. From food stamps, to PFD eligibility, to occupational and professional licenses, to payroll backlogs, my office has helped literally dozens of Alaskans get the services they need.
To resolve these underlying issues, we need to address the public sector recruitment and retention crisis by incentivizing people to work and stay in Alaska. To do this, we need to increase the pay of public sector employees – including teachers – and most importantly we need to provide better benefits for public sector employees. SB 88, of which I am a co-sponsor, is an important bill to reform our retirement system by establishing a defined benefit retirement. This also applies to teachers and school employees. With a shortage and revolving door of teachers, student learning outcomes underperform and teachers burnout from working in Alaska and working in the profession. As a young working Alaskan, I know that young people and working families are concerned about their retirement opportunities in Alaska, and I believe tackling this issue is a good way to begin to address Alaska’s outmigration issues.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
A retirement system that is competitive seems to be a hard thing the get to. I wonder if we shouldn’t look at more of a private business model looking at other types of retirement plans that aren’t managed by a retirement system but allowing the individual to drive the investments they want. I just believe that the more we can get government out of the way the better we are.
Pamela Goode (R)
We can all agree, Alaska can be a challenging place to live, especially in the interior. It is not for the weak of heart. If you are looking specifically for those who want to stay awhile, hiring the “right people” is the most important thing to do. Those are the people who love living in Alaska and calling it their home or being raised in Alaska and have no desire to go elsewhere. A positive and flexible work environment is essential. If people are happy where they live and the jobs they have, it shows in their attitude and performance. If they are teachers, that is very important because they teach the children. These dedicated good employees should be compensated accordingly because it benefits all those involved.
If employees are not happy, that too will become obvious and those are not the people you want teaching the children. It has been proven that for the long-term, money is not the great motivator or what makes a happy dedicated employee. If money does not work long-term, then likely neither will much else.
The statutory PFD is the greatest Alaskan monetary incentive I have seen yet, especially for a family with children. Legislators need to not look past that. It is an incentive that is also celebrated by the masses, not just the selected few. In addition, the local economy and overall Alaska economy prospers by helping out the private business sector who likely have employees they may want to keep also.
Most employees have an opinion they do not mind sharing, especially if they are leaving their employment for a different job, different location, or retirement. When I worked at NASA, exit interviews were standard protocol.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
Our public employees cannot afford to live and retire securely. We need to reinstate defined benefits for public employees so that they can feel secure remaining in their positions. We also need to work on reducing the cost of living in our rural communities; so many of our public employees have to leave their homes in our rural communities simply because the cost of energy, groceries, and housing is too high. Public employee turnover is expensive for our state and inefficient. It can cause gaps in our public services, such as public safety, that can have dire consequences for our communities.
Dana Mock (R)
I believe it is very expensive to lose staff constantly and have to retrain new employees. In education, experience and local knowledge makes a teacher far more effective. We need to focus on employee retention and productivity to make government more efficient. I’m also concerned we have the worst retirement system in the nation for State Troopers, which is contributing to dozens of vacancies and huge turnover costs. Public safety is critical and we have to fix our broken pension system.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
State public employees are paid on average 28% less than their federal counterparts. Recent college graduates with a Master’s degree entering the State workforce can barely survive financially. We must move towards a smaller State workforce, and raise pay accordingly. Different than State public employees, teacher pay is set by individual school districts. By developing employment pathways for our high school students and improving our in-state higher education programs, we can once again put Alaskans in Alaskan jobs, in communities they want to live in long-term. Adding modern housing options in our remote villages will also help public employee and teacher retention tremendously.
Cole Snodgress (R)
For a meaningful solution, exit interviews will help establish the starting point as to why these employees are leaving. Not all retention issues are monetary based. I would advocate the standardization of requiring exit interviews.
Tribal-state relations: How and where should the state work with tribal governments?
Mike Cronk (R)
I believe the state and our tribal governments should be working as partners to better our state.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
Our State is stronger when we partner with our tribal governments, and we have a ways to go in establishing trusting government to government relationships with Tribes. We should partner in many areas — the child welfare compact is a positive step — and there’s more work to be done when it comes to education, wildfire management, and public safety.
Bert Williams (AIP)
I will refrain from answering this question as I know my understanding of tribal politics and operations is insufficient, and any answer I might give is liable to be both ill-informed and foolish.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
The government-to-government relationship between the State of Alaska and tribes in Alaska through consultation on matters of mutual concern.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The State should always work very closely with our tribal governments as sovereign partners who also want to improve the lives of those in Alaska. The State of Alaska used to have an entire Department of Community and Regional Affairs and I would like to see some sort of an executive branch level position incorporated like a new department of tribal government and regional affairs.
Maxine Dibert (D)
We have such an incredible opportunity to develop deeper government to government partnerships with tribes. Whether it’s healthcare or education, we can get much more done when we’re bringing together all of our resources and perspectives to solve common challenges. The tribal compacting models that are being developed regarding healthcare and education are good starts and I will be watching closely to see how successful they are and how they are refined and developed through policy and practice.
Bart LeBon (R)
Public safety quickly comes to mind. Rather it be through the Alaska State Troopers or Village Public Safety Officer program we need to do all that is reasonable possible to fully staff both agencies. Working with regional native corporations, village corporations and/or tribal governments to make service in rural Alaska attractive to applicants seeking a law enforcement career is our objective; how we do it means working together to improve, for example, the quality of housing available for our public safety professionals.
Gary Damron (D)
The state should continue to work with tribal governments as partners. Using our shared resources is the most logical way to bridge the urban – rural divide we currently face.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Need to encourage tribes to become more involved with child welfare and education compacts.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
I believe that the most effective and accountable form of government is one closest to the people it serves. Tribal and cultural governments have a long history of effectively governing their own communities for generations. I support the principle of allowing tribal governments the autonomy to govern themselves. This approach respects the traditions and values of indigenous communities. Our VPSO’s and troopers are adept at developing relationships with their assigned communities and work collaboratively when state law must be enforced.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
One thing that needs to be addressed is vacant positions. Positions older than two years should be cut, departments can reapply during the budget process. Develop our natural resources like oil, gas, timber, and rare earth minerals to increase revenues.
Ashley Carrick (D)
As a member of the Tribal Affairs Committee, I have had the pleasure of working closely with many tribal organizations, including tribal governments. I believe we need to have a collaborative and government to government relationship with tribal governments. Where necessary, the state should provide resources to support tribal governments as well.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
Where it makes sense. The areas that affect the tribes people the most, I would think, are health care, wellness, and education. I have been saying for years we need to make education relevant to those that are being educated; turning over education to tribes that are willing to take it on is a good step in working to engage tribal students and really rural students in general in their education. I think the state should work with tribal governments wherever we can and that makes sense for all involved.
Pamela Goode (R)
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
Tribal governments have tremendous expertise to offer in all areas, including natural resource management, education, public health, and responsible resource development. Tribal governments are deeply motivated to improve quality of life for Alaskans into the future. Working with tribal governments benefits all Alaskans. The State of Alaska only officially recognized our 229 federally-recognized tribes in 2022, nearly 30 years after most received federal recognition. The state has not engaged tribes sufficiently, and should be required to consult and/or partner with tribes in all matters pertaining to the wellbeing of tribal citizens and traditional tribal territories.
Dana Mock (R)
Partnerships with tribes are essential to improving children’s services and keeping families together. I will strongly support collaboration of tribes with the state, including but not limited to tribal compacting related to children’s services.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
When we recognize that tribal entities are local residents working hard to improve their communities, create jobs and opportunities for children, we all benefit. The State has numerous opportunities to work with tribal entities on issues such as education, public health, public safety, economic development, and subsistence. Tribal entities offer tremendous value as State partners.
Cole Snodgress (R)
This is something I am actively learning more about.
Budget cuts/revenues: When you look at the state budget, what’s the No. 1 thing you’d like to see cut or reduced, and what’s your No. 1 preferred way to raise new state revenue?
Mike Cronk (R)
I believe there are still places to cut, especially in vacancies. Does government need to be so bloated? I believe in efficient and productive agencies. I believe the legislature must pass a complete fiscal plan in order to get to the solutions that will lead us to other revenue sources.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
Our Department of Corrections budget has steadily increased over the past decade at the cost of hundreds of dollars per day for every incarcerated individual. This is too expensive and our money can be better spent focusing on public safety and reducing crime at the outset. Especially as our incarcerated population ages, there are smarter ways to spend our money helping individuals rehabilitate, get jobs, and rejoin their community in a positive light.
I’m open to conversations about how to raise revenue in ways that protect working Alaskans. Living in the Interior is already expensive. Ideally an additional revenue measure would draw from nonresidents, whether that’s people that come to Alaska to visit or work temporarily, or closing tax loopholes for outside corporations.
Bert Williams (AIP)
The best way to raise new revenue is to cut spending. Just how much blood would the state government like to squeeze from this rock? Perhaps the only sensible thing the state could do is a flat 25% tax on income made from employment in or businesses owned in Alaska by individuals who do not reside in the state. Currently there seems to be a general impression that Alaska – both its people and resources – is an orange to be squeezed so that the juice can be taken elsewhere. Eventually there will be nothing left to squeeze.
Unfortunately the state government can’t be trusted with even this, as they’ll inevitably extend it to people living in Alaska. An income tax would be the worst possible mistake the state government could make, and they would simply deserve everything that happens afterwards.
As far as what should be cut, the simplest starting point is anything to do with solar or wind renewables, or carbon capture/sequestration. One can be written off as a waste of time based purely on EROI, and the other as it can be done in the backyard by anybody with an ounce of motivation without spending millions of state dollars.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
On so many issues, including state revenue and the budget, I believe we need to get back to the basics and work to grow our economy. I believe we must capitalize on opportunities with the federal government to maximize infrastructure investments. I also believe we should constantly strive to streamline government through efficiencies, modernization, and updates to redundant and outdated policies that could help us lower costs and increase savings. Ultimately, Alaska is a resource development state that relies on a healthy investment environment to spur job growth, advance our economy and provide local benefits to our residents through development. I also support exploring new opportunities for revenue – such as recently enacted carbon sequestration legislation.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The state needs to see where duplication arises in communities that already have a tax base. For instance, the State Troopers patrol large swathes of land in the Mat-su Valley area that already has coverage by local law enforcement agencies. These state troopers should be patrolling in parts of Alaska that is either unorganized or too small to be able to afford their own services through their own tax structures. I support a fair share for our non-renewable resources like oil and gas.
Maxine Dibert (D)
We should reduce waste and redundancy in government. For example large sums of money have been wasted on legal challenges that, for the most part, have not produced positive results and that have primarily enriched outside lawyers. State spending that doesn’t benefit Alaskan residents should be the first area of spending we look to reduce. We do need to be able to start conversations about new revenue, so that we can protect the permanent fund and provide for essential services like education and public safety. I represent a working class district and it’s very important to me that solutions to our fiscal situation do not come at the expense of everyday working people. I will continue to approach conversations about revenue options with a view towards protecting the pocketbooks of working Alaskans.
Bart LeBon (R)
Many state positions have been vacant for many years yet continue to be funded through the annual budget process. Much of this money ends up getting spent on agency operating costs, to include equipment purchases, and are not directed toward filling these vacant staff positions. Any new revenue the state generates needs to come from enhanced resource development and not by taxing individual Alaskans.
Gary Damron (D)
Looking at the current state budget I believe you have to look at effciencies. At this time i believe the budget is about where it needs to be. I think there are no easy choices so again we as Alaskans need to look at all of the tough choices we face and as a family decide how we want to move forward.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
I believe there are opportunities to improve service and reduce the cost of medical care through multi-state licensure compacts and reducing the time it takes to process license applications.
Let those who claim they prefer maintaining state services to receiving a dividend know they they are welcome to return all or part of the dividend check they receive to the Department of Revenue.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
I think given the education and energy crises we are feeling in the interior, the money allocated to the Alaska Long Trail could be better spent in areas that would benefit a substantial number of residents.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
One thing that needs to be addressed is vacant positions. Positions older than two years should be cut, departments can reapply during the budget process. Develop our natural resources like oil, gas, timber, and rare earth minerals to increase revenues.
Ashley Carrick (D)
Our state budget has been cut nearly to the bone over the last decade, and at this point we must look for smaller efficiencies rather than places to cleave apart our Departments and Divisions. I would like to see fewer public dollars spent on the Statehood Defense fund and on AIDEA, though I believe that, generally, any cuts need to be carefully considered.
My preferred revenue measure would be to first stabilize our Permanent Fund Dividend formula with a sustainable formula removed from being an annual political football. I have also been transparent in stating that the Legislature should consider potential broad-based tax structures like an income tax that would allow equitable investment in our public resources.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
I don’t think there is just one. I am a private business owner and using contractors outside of my businesses seems to allow a certain of accountability with both my business and the contractor I have contracted with. I would like the state to look at hiring independent contractors more where it makes sense. Using contractors on services that don’t need to be housed in state government. On the state board of education, we have done just that; contracting out services that can be done outside of the dept. of education and that work with the department to make products and services. That allows us to pivot if needed to other contractors once a task has been completed and using the next contractors expertise on a new task that may need different skills to complete. State revenue wise, I think we need to do more resource development; we have so many resources to develop and should keep concentrating on that to create revenue.
Pamela Goode (R)
If new revenue is generated, it should be done so as a byproduct of the investment of entrepreneurial dollars coming into the state for resource development or other private investment ventures. Taxes should not be pursued to continue or increase the unsustainable overspending that drained Alaska’s reserves and gave way to legislators taking the PFD.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
We should look for ways to improve efficiencies in our government administration to reduce operating costs. This includes improving public employee retention to reduce turnover. I do not believe that we should be cutting the budget to our public services – these services exist to benefit our Alaskan people, and reducing funding to public services typically disproportionately impacts low-income and rural Alaskans who depend on these services the most. Our state is resource rich. We should not have a budget deficit. Large corporations are turning huge profits exploiting our state’s natural resources, and much of this profit leaves the state. We need to reexamine our corporate tax structure to keep more of this money in-state. I do not support taxes that disproportionately impact working and rural Alaskans, including small businesses.
Dana Mock (R)
We should always look at ways to control administrative costs and ensure services are being provided to Alaskans. I always will fight for fairness for rural communities—too often cuts affect rural communities the most, and we need an advocate in Juneau who understands our Interior communities. There is not a need for new taxes, the legislature just passed a balanced budget, and oil prices continue to be more than high enough for a balanced budget next year. We must look for efficiencies, budget reductions, and spending limits in order to address the budget.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
Across State agencies as well as the University system, we must step back from the desire to match every possible federal dollar available. Our continual push to increase federal match funds has led to a consistent and uncontrollable growth in our annual State budget. To raise State revenue, we must continually work to bring new oil, gas, and mineral development projects online concurrently supporting Alaskan small businesses, despite continued federal roadblocks.
Cole Snodgress (R)
The largest items in the FY 25′ enacted Budget (w/o Federal receipts) are as follows:
1. Education
2. Health
3. UA
4. DOT and Public Facilities
5. Capital
6. Revenue
7. Corrections
Revenues: I am not for “new” revenues only replacement revenues to shift the subsidized government deficit spend from the PFD. A state sales tax would cast the broadest net upon the resident non-resident workers, and tourists for state revenue generation. If no cuts can be made, this would need to bring in about 1.2-1.3 billion for the return of a full PFD. If this can be achieved during the April-September/October months, then make this revenue source seasonal for winter relief.
Health: What should the state do to safeguard and improve Alaskans’ health?
Mike Cronk (R)
I think focusing outreach efforts is key.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
The State should continue to take an innovative approach to ensure Alaskans have access to health care. The state’s reinsurance program, for example, has lowered private sector health insurance premiums for Alaska. We need to make sure that Alaskans have access to treatment — whether that’s for physical illness, mental health, or a substance misuse disorder. We’re seeing the effects of disinvestment in our behavioral health system.
The state should partner with and support the tribal health system, which is a national model for its effectiveness. The more we can provide treatment in one’s community and not require flights to Anchorage or out of State, the better.
Bert Williams (AIP)
If we’re speaking plainly and honestly, there are three things that would dramatically improve the safety and health of Alaskans: first, non-association with the US Federal Government. It is plain to see they wish to drag us into a number of enormous global conflicts, and Alaska will be the most exposed. Why should Alaskan’s die because the worthless DC politicians think it’s a good idea? The second, and most important, is a roughly hundred fold expansion of agricultural activity in the state. The third is the complete erasure of China as an industrial entity as their complete lack of environmental regulations (the same things that keep wind and solar ‘cheap’) mean a stupendous amount of atmospheric pollution which, thanks to the vagaries of atmospheric cycling, all rains down in the arctic.
Yes, ‘cheap’ solar and wind results in more pollution in Alaska.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
While Alaska has many bright spots, we continue to struggle with issues relating to drug abuse and drug overdose deaths. Sadly, Alaska is experiencing the largest percent increase in drug overdose deaths of any state in the nation –– largely due to the infusion of fentanyl to our state. Like many local, state and federal stakeholders, I am deeply concerned by this statistic and believe we can do more to safeguard our youth and educate them about the dangers of fentanyl. In addition, as a proud volunteer of the Fairbanks Senior Center Meals on Wheel program, I have been honored to learn more about our neighbors who struggle with nutrition and food security. I strongly believe we can do more to support a strong local agriculture industry to support our communities and our neighbors in need. Lastly, I believe we should work to tackle the overall cost of healthcare in Alaska and the ongoing shortage in healthcare workers across our state. We must continue to work to attract qualified health care workers to our state, and advance efforts to drive down pharmaceutical costs and insurance premiums for hardworking Alaskans. I also believe we can do more to work with our public health partners to offer free or affordable testing for transmittable diseases as well as cancer screenings.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The Alaska Constitution dictates that the State Legislature shall provide for public health and public safety and welfare of which we do a fair amount. But as the senior population continues to grow and the working age population continues to decline, we need to do more to attract and retain the public health labor force that is necessary from medical technicians to surgeons and everyone in between.
Maxine Dibert (D)
Last session, I was a cosponsor for HB 344 which authorizes the Department of Health to implement “broad-based categorical eligibility,” a Medicaid waiver that will streamline the application process, easing requirements to obtain SNAP benefits, and alleviating hunger for thousands of Alaskans. Expanding access to affordable healthcare coverage for all Alaskans remains a priority to me. I believe that we should be investing in telehealth services and broadband infrastructure to reach people in rural and remote areas. We also need to promote healthcare workforce development. This means supporting training and retention of healthcare professionals and incentivizing healthcare providers to practice in underserved areas. We should beef up our post-secondary training options in our state and support apprenticeship programs that get our young adults involved and lead to employment. We also need to continue attracting skilled healthcare professionals to our state. We do know that quality of life issues regarding our schools and our public safety departments do make a difference when we are recruiting doctors, dentists, nurses, technicians and specialists of all kinds.
Bart LeBon (R)
Encourage all Alaskans to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of exercise and following a consistent personal health program of regular dental care and annual health examinations. I believe we have established enough state supported health programs to serve any Alaskan who seeks to improve their general health. Of course, most Alaskans have access through their employers health insurance programs to safeguard their own personal health plus the good health of their immediate family members.
Gary Damron (D)
Losing Dr. Zink was a blow to Alaska, but we have to continue to look at mental health and decide how we can enhance what we currently provide.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
We need to devote more attention to youth mental health as a way to avoid dealing with more serious issues later. HB 343 which would have enabled providing assistance to school children experiencing
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
Three schools in my district were on the chopping block this year as the cost per student made them the least cost-effective to operate of all local schools. Closing these schools in the rural communities of Two Rivers and Salcha would create a massive negative ripple effect on parents and businesses. The education bill passed by the legislature and vetoed by the governor would have helped solve the issue. I would support similar legislation and find compromises where applicable to ensure a stable and secure school system.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Reduction to the cost of energy is sorely needed. Development of our natural resources like timber, oil, gas and rare earth minerals to create high paying jobs.
Ashley Carrick (D)
Protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Alaskans is one of my three campaign pillars and one of my highest priorities. This session I passed HB 17 which has been a decade in the making. This bill would require insurance companies to cover a 12 month supply of contraceptives if prescribed by a doctor. Alaskan women live and work in remote communities and having access to a 12 month supply of contraceptives will help improve the health of Alaskan women and can create a drastic reduction in unplanned pregnancies and abortions.
In general, we need to increase access to health care for all Alaskans and address the shortage of medical professionals in our State. As a member of the House Labor and Commerce committee, I have been committed to addressing issues relevant to our workforce, including the passage of the Technical Vocational Education Program (TVEP) re-authorization which helps to train individuals for high demand careers in Alaska, including in the nursing and healthcare fields.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
Generally speaking we need to prosecute the crimes that are being committed now. The illegal drug epidemic is killing our youth and/or mentally impairing our population both rural and urban, we need to attack those that are attacking us and make not worth their while to hurt those that we love.
Pamela Goode (R)
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
Our communities need clean air and water, affordable access to healthy food, access to healthcare, safety from crime, and the ability to live their ways of life and thrive. From the state standpoint, this means ensuring that environmental impacts of resource development do not threaten the health and safety of our communities, or cause irreversible harm to the ecosystems and wildlife we rely on. It means prioritizing subsistence and working to restore our salmon. It means improving access to healthcare and emergency services for our rural communities. It means addressing the public safety crisis in rural Alaska. It means building a thriving economy so people can have good jobs, support their families, and retire securely.
Dana Mock (R)
Access to fish and game is essential to promote healthy food choices. We must ensure our food securities, so that all our residence have food available. We also need to improve mental health and substance abuse services to reduce rates of addiction.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
The most important thing we can do to safeguard Alaskan’s health is to continually work towards maintaining clean air, land, and water for the long-term. Often, there are trade-offs for development, though the long-term health and sustainability of our natural resources should always be a top priority. Concurrently, we must work towards improving educational and work opportunities for our youth. With idle hands, they often slide into depression helped along by negative influences from social media and too much time on smartphones. Finally, we should continue to be wary of federal and global influence.
Cole Snodgress (R)
Increase the ability of goods and services to transfer between states i.e. occupational licensing reform. The implementation of inner/multi state agreements to harmonize the recognition of others medical license will help streamline and attract outside talent into our medical practice here in Alaska.
Biggest need: What’s the biggest need in your district, and how would you address it?
Mike Cronk (R)
Subsistence and energy costs. The Yukon is a disaster. NO fishing at all. People are struggling to get caribou and moose. We must find ways to get not just affordable, but cheap energy. For the fishing aspect, we must do what we control. That means looking at limiting hatchery salmon that compete with the wild salmon for food. We must cut back commercial fishing if it is impacting the rivers where the stock is in jeopardy. Trawling must be stopped. Our seas and the ecosystems simply can not withstand it. For energy, we must look at what best helps in certain areas. A lot my district is rural and getting solar can help offset costs and help save on hundreds of thousands of gallons of diesel. Biomass must be looked at where it could help heat buildings and produce electricity. The road belt needs to be completed as part of the railbelt intertie where all producers can then share their energy.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
District R needs the basics taken care of. We need good schools where every student has the chance to get an education that will set them up to lead an independent life, whether that means joining the job market, a trade apprenticeship, or getting higher education. We need access to affordable and reliable energy, affordable child care, and affordable housing. Fundamentally, this is about creating an environment where families want to stay, and people choose to invest by opening businesses and creating jobs. As a legislator, I will make sure the state is fulfilling its obligations to provide those baseline services that allow for a strong private sector.
Bert Williams (AIP)
While normally a good question, my district spans somewhere between 30-40% of the landmass of the state and is split between rural villages, wealthy-suburban parts of Fairbanks, and several agricultural areas. Because of this there is no state-level common need – my constituents all have dramatically different modes of living, and accompanying problems. The only good answer, therefor, is the need for a stable currency that is not continually eroding beneath them. That said, I am humble enough to admit I am powerless to get rid of the US dollar.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
As mentioned above, I strongly believe access to cheap, reliable energy is critical for a strong Interior Alaska. I strongly support efforts to strengthen and modernize the Railbelt electrical grid and would like to continue to explore the viability of larger projects like an in-state gas line, hydroelectric, wind, solar, geothermal and nuclear energy projects to support market-based energy solutions that lower the cost of energy for Fairbanks ratepayers.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The cost of energy and utilities is too high and too erratic which makes it difficult for business or government or even families to adjust their budget accordingly. Fairbanks needs ways to better address the cost of energy through stability and predictability which means that Fairbanks needs to diversify the energy portfolio with renewables and also continue to utilize fuels that are currently plentiful and in use as a very temporary bridge.
Maxine Dibert (D)
Economic development, affordable energy, and education are the main needs of working families in my district. Many residents are hurting financially right now. Many families are struggling to pay for groceries and energy bills. We need to address the short term price spikes, and also address the long-term dynamics so that we can make Fairbanks a less expensive place to live. In the short term, I’ll support continued direct assistance such as the energy rebate that helped our families and seniors with their bills. We need to bring back stability and predictability to the PFD by taking it out of the hands of politicians – so families can plan around known payments. I will fight to make the longer term investments that will effectively drive down Fairbanks energy costs. This will give breathing room for Fairbanks residents and businesses.
Our youth need to know they will be able to obtain high paying jobs with good benefits. Such jobs should prioritize Alaska residents over outsiders and I support Alaska hire initiatives wherever possible. High paying jobs are the result of a strong public education system including k-12 schools with vibrant and effective workforce development programs, vocational schools, and a strong University of Alaska system offering diverse, high demand degree programs. I believe regular and dependable state funding of public education will promote statewide economic development and will result in more high paying jobs for our residents. We also need to leverage federal dollars so that we can build out new infrastructure creating opportunities for new facilities, construction jobs. Federal dollars will also help us address the serious deferred maintenance issues related to our roads and our buildings and institutions throughout the state.
Bart LeBon (R)
District 31 continues to benefit from the availability of clean burning natural gas and making it an affordable option for homeowners and business owners to convert their heating source to natural gas remains a high community priority.
Gary Damron (D)
The biggest need in my district reducing the cost of energy. The Instate gas pipeline would give my district and the state the cheapest energy in the nation and I want the option explored in the next legislative session.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Expanding the natural gas distribution system to lower the cost of heating homes and reduce fine particulate pollution. I am encouraged by the effort the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation is making toward building a pipeline from the North Slope.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
Three schools in my district were on the chopping block this year as the cost per student made them the least cost-effective to operate of all local schools. Closing these schools in the rural communities of Two Rivers and Salcha would create a massive negative ripple effect on parents and businesses. The education bill passed by the legislature and vetoed by the governor would have helped solve the issue. I would support similar legislation and find compromises where applicable to ensure a stable and secure school system.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Reduction to the cost of energy is sorely needed. Development of our natural resources like timber, oil, gas and rare earth minerals to create high paying jobs.
Ashley Carrick (D)
The three most pressing needs in House District 35 are education, broadband internet access, and affordable energy.
The heart of House District 35 is home to the flagship University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. As the Representative for HD 35, I consider all UAF students, staff, faculty, and administrators my constituents, and preserving access to education from pre-k to UA is one of my highest priorities. My number one priority for the UA system is addressing the billion dollar deferred maintenance backlog. I am pleased that the capital budget that passed the Legislature included $26 million for UA deferred maintenance including $10 million for the UAF Patty Center. While $26 million is a drop in the bucket of the entire billion dollar deferred maintenance backlog for UA, with strategic yearly investments we can begin to seriously work through the deferred maintenance list and keep the lights on. For K-12 education, we need to permanently increase the Base Student Allocation (BSA) – our education funding formula to offer direct and stable support for schools.
Access to broadband internet is critical to our modern world, and yet there are still many areas in Fairbanks that do not have broadband access. With billions of federal dollars for broadband connectivity available, we must take this opportunity to build out our broadband network for both rural Alaska and semi-urban Alaska like the areas in House District 35.
Affordable energy is a need everywhere in the Interior, and is something that is broadly supported. Alaska was blessed when it received the $206.5 million Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP) grant from the Federal Department of Energy to make badly needed upgrades to the Railbelt grid. To leverage this grant, we must provide a one-to-one match, and this year the Legislature appropriated nearly $30 million for that match. Over the next several years, I look forward to continue supporting all necessary matching funds to receive this grant. Another important investment we must make is in the Interior Gas Utility as it works to expand its natural gas network and hook up more homes to cleaner burning natural gas. The benefits of investments like these are multifaceted including more affordable heat, and cleaner air for our region.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
One of the biggest needs in district 36 is the lowering of energy costs and having consistent energy costs both in the summer and winter. Bringing an inter tie to the district would help with that, along with more sustainable energy that could be accessed in the winter months. There are several potential sustainable energy project in our region that could help not just our district but the whole rail belt for better sustainable energy.
Pamela Goode (R)
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
We have the largest district in the country with many diverse communities. We need to address the subsistence crisis, reduce energy costs and overall cost of living, and fund our education system to provide our children with the best possible futures. Our salmon and caribou are declining; the state has not done enough to protect these populations and ensure that our rural communities can feed their families and continue their traditional ways of life. This needs to be an absolute priority of the state to ensure that we don’t lose our salmon, caribou, and other important wildlife forever. To reduce energy costs, we must invest in energy infrastructure, continue developing our energy resources, and begin developing more renewable energy alternatives. This will also help maintain and create quality jobs. We need to examine the high costs of shipping goods and materials, including groceries, to rural Alaska. We need to fund our schools and support our educators so they can provide our children with the quality education they deserve.
Dana Mock (R)
High costs of energy, food insecurity, and lack of jobs in some communities are the greatest challenges facing many Interior communities. Along the Alaska Highway, we need to improve infrastructure (including with Northern Rail extension) so we can develop our mineral resources.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
Rural Alaska has seen incredible declines in the return and size of salmon, and now moose, caribou and sheep numbers are down significantly as well. Without the ability to harvest wild game and fish, we are struggling to feed our families and maintain a traditional way of life. Our Constitution requires that Alaska utilize as well as develop our resources on a sustained yield principle for the people of our state, something our federal counterparts will not do. Considering our State statutes prioritize subsistence harvest already, we have to work to the extent possible to ensure that we maintain and improve these opportunities. Once we rebuild wild populations, we can then ensure other beneficial uses are provided for as well.
Cole Snodgress (R)
The PFD. Looking at Alaska’s income distribution curve, District 36 heavily subsidized the FY25′ state deficit spend through their PFD cuts. This can be addressed through a sustainable budget. If the state spend must be such, a replacement revenue would be equally placed on all resident and non-residents in the state and would begin to engage individual Alaskans with the State spend.
Elections and voting: What, if any, changes does the state need to make to its elections and voting system?
Mike Cronk (R)
We need to make sure our elections are secure. Rank choice voting is questionable at best and we must make sure that absentee ballots have the proper witness signatures.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
We need to make voting more accessible and ensure that all legitimate votes are counted. In the 2022 Special General Election, 1 in 8 ballots from rural Alaska was rejected. That is unacceptable. I support the election reforms that were proposed during the last session that will provides voters the chance to fix errors on their ballot that would otherwise cause their vote to be thrown out. The voters in my District — and all across the State — deserve to be counted.
Bert Williams (AIP)
Hand counted paper ballots only, no mail-in ballots allowed. Anybody who actually understands the modern hardware-software environment understands that electronic voting machines are about as unsecure as it gets, and anybody who understands that and still advocates for them is probably best exiled from the state.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
I personally support returning to our traditional voting system and intend to vote in favor of Ballot Measure 2. I have confidence in our state election system but support efforts to protect against voter fraud and improve the process to remove ineligible voters from the state’s voter registry. I also believe access to paper ballots, election observers, and poll watchers (an activity in which I’ve personally participated in) can increase trust and confidence in our electoral process.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
The state election and voting system should be simple and secure. A regular everyday citizen of Alaska should not feel threatened by the complexity of the system and have a very easy path to register, vote early, vote absentee or vote on election day in their own neighborhood. The voter roll should be confirmed and verified periodically and voters who move or no longer vote in Alaska should have an easy way to remove themselves from the official register.
Maxine Dibert (D)
Our current election system gives voters more choice at the ballot box and incentivizes good governance, especially the open primaries. I oppose the attempt to repeal that system. I support the bipartisan legislation that almost passed this past session that would have allowed for voters to correct technical errors on mailed ballots. Any policy that increases accessibility to voting and that ensures every one of our residents are able to vote without difficulty is worthy of serious consideration.
Bart LeBon (R)
I would like to see Alaskans given a second bite of the apple regarding ranked choice voting. In my opinion, it has been a failed election format and needs to go away.
Gary Damron (D)
Senator Kawasaki and Shower had a really good election reform package that was not passed last year. I would like to see the legislation introduced again and passed this session.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
The State Voter Registration List appears to be quite ‘stale’. This might due to our fairly mobile population. This exposes the list to nefarious activity. We should consider ways to verify residential address are current and reach out to inactive voters to maintain accuracy of lists.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
The long-term outcome of the current ranked-choice voting system has yet to be seen. It seems to allow for more moderate and collaborative leadership.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
The state should repeal rank choice voting and require voter ID.
Ashley Carrick (D)
We need to encourage voting while also making it easier for Alaskans to maintain faith in our elections process. With Alaska having so many remote communities and a transient population, we rely heavily on absentee voting options. During the 2022 special congressional election, thousands of ballots were not counted, with significant percentages of those rejected ballots coming from rural Alaska. We must make absentee voting more accessible for every registered voter in Alaska so all of our communities can rest assured that their vote is counted.
Additionally we must better encourage civic participation in our schools by investing in civics education and passing legislation like HB 246 which would allow for voter preregistration for Alaskans 16-17. Altogether, Alaska’s voting system is safe and secure, but certain reforms are necessary, both to ensure that our young adults become lifelong voters and to bolster faith in our elections system.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
If we really believe that an individual voting is so important than we need to create a system that respects and protects that individuals vote. That means a system that is robust and checks to make sure that that individual voting is truly that individual.
Pamela Goode (R)
I support increasing access to voting including through early voting and mail-in ballots. We need to make sure that people in our rural communities are able to exercise their right to vote. Rural Alaskan voters have frequently been disenfranchised because their polling places are understaffed or don’t open on time on Election Day, or mail-in ballots arrive late in the mail. The state must fix these issues to ensure that every Alaskan has the opportunity to vote.
Dana Mock (R)
no changes at present. If the people want to repeal rank choice voting, it needs to be put back on the ballot for the people to decide.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
Every Alaskan, with ID must have the ability to vote, including those with disabilities. Secondly, there is a need to clean up our voter roles to ensure that ballots are not being printed for the deceased or for individuals that no longer live in the state.
Cole Snodgress (R)
Clean up the voter rolls more often, signature verification for absentee ballots.
Oil: How long will oil be central to Alaska’s economy, and what, if anything, should the state government be doing now to prepare for a post-oil future?
Mike Cronk (R)
Oil will be with us for a long time, it is not going away. I believe our state can have other options, but those options will only be there if Alaska has CHEAP energy.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
Oil and gas will continue to play an important role in Alaska’s economy, and we need to take advantage of this time to invest
Bert Williams (AIP)
A post-oil future means a future where Alaska can’t be run like a happy banana republic, mostly out of fiscal necessity. The best thing the government could do to prepare for that is to disburse all state-held land to Alaskans with mineral rights, and property tax immunity and family-ownership riders. Any fantasies of maintaining current expenditure levels without oil revenue to sustain it are exactly that.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
Alaska is a resource development state and the oil and gas sector will remain central to our social and economic success for years to come. These projects fund state and local government, provide thousands of good-paying jobs, and play a critical role in our shared energy future.
Moreover, with new energy projects on the horizon and billions in new investment taking place on Alaska’s North Slope, Fairbanks has an opportunity to capitalize on these opportunities and serve as a staging ground for many of these new projects. As instability grows across the globe, particularly in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Alaska’s vast energy reserves will also serve as an important tool to restore American energy independence and help support our allies abroad.
I strongly believe in all-of-the-above energy policies that support market-based solutions to lower the cost of energy, including opportunities for a responsible, long-term energy transition that utilizes Alaska’s vast gas reserves and renewable energy sources like solar, wind, geothermal, and nuclear. I strongly believe we should maximize every opportunity and adopt long-term solutions to address our growing energy needs.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
Oil is central to the Alaska economy and so we must also be prepared to rapidly and efficiently convert to a post oil future as the rest of the world evolves. If Alaska doesn’t remain prepared to evolve then our oil and gas resources in the ground may become less economic to develop than other prospects near tidewater or population centers.
Maxine Dibert (D)
House district 31 is a working class district, and it’s a challenge for many of my constituents to pay their energy bills. Over the next decades it is clear we should strive to diversify our economy wherever possibe. We need to take an “ all of the above” approach to diversifying our energy grid and our resources. We should look to produce goods within our state through value added industries. We can’t rely solely on exporting our resources if we are to be a successful state for the next 50 to 100 years and beyond. We have incredible opportunities right now to take advantage of federal resources to invest in renewable energy. I supported legislation that will upgrade our energy grid and allow for renewables to be more easily integrated. I serve on the House Resources Committee and I am currently the only Fairbanks area legislator represented on the committee. I worked hard to get on this committee so that I could promote responsible resource development. I take representing the Interior very seriously. My main focus on the committee has been to promote ongoing development for our Alaskan oil & gas fields as well as our mineral assets. Fossil fuels will continue to play a major role in our energy needs, supporting economic stability while we gradually shift towards more sustainable energy programs over time. I will continue to work to promote the development of a diverse set of energy and economic resources including the expansion of renewables.
Bart LeBon (R)
Oil will be central to our economy for decades to come. After oil, we will further develop our vast resource of natural gas followed by other natural resources as they may become available such as rare earth minerals, gold, coal, etc. But what the future may bring beyond oil ultimately remains to be seen as world issues evolve.
Gary Damron (D)
I think oil will continue to be central to Alaska’s economy into the future. The state government needs to prepare our citizens and have a real discussion on how we have a need for a long range fiscal plan and all of the pieces to be included. If we are truly honest with Alaskans I know we can decide what is best moving forward.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
The petroleum industry will continue to be a substantial source of state revenue for the foreseeable future. We should implement a spending cap based on a 5 year trailing average of private sector Gross Production of the private sector in the Constitution. We should do what we can to reduce project permitting while maintaining current environmental protection laws.
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
Oil has been and will be central to Alaska’s economy for the foreseeable future. Diversification of revenue sources will help alleviate unstable oil prices and ensure stability for future generations.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Oil will continue to be part of Alaska’s economy for the foreseeable future. We should always be looking for new reliable and affordable technologies.
Ashley Carrick (D)
With new oil projects coming online over the next decade, oil will continue to play an important part of our economy for many years to come. As the world transitions away from fossil fuels, our state needs to prepare for a post-oil future. We must follow Jay Hammond’s vision and continue to see that we make oil revenue– a finite resource – into a permanent resource by investing it in our Permanent Fund for future generations.
We must also invest now in alternative energy sources including renewables, and scaling these projects to fit the needs of diverse communities across the state both right now and into the future.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
I believe oil will be central to Alaska’s economy for at least 50 years if not longer, it is the most efficient BTU still known to man that means it’s still the most valuable. Looking at moving away from that asset for Alaska is hard to fathom but we need to find and develop other revenue sources for the state of Alaska.
Pamela Goode (R)
Oil and gas resources are central to Alaska’s economy and will be for a very long time. It also remains essential to the US economy. Predominately, oil moves America and Alaska. Alaska needs to continue to encourage the development her oil and gas resources. I do not foresee any measures necessary to be taken at this time to prepare for a post-oil future. Other alternatives have not yet been developed to a point that they will be reliable, and therefore safe, in the extreme cold temperatures.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
Alaska is an energy leader. Oil and gas will be a part of Alaska’s energy solution for decades to come. These industries provide important jobs and revenue for the state. At the same time, we need to look towards the future of renewable energy. If Alaska is to remain a leader in the energy industry, we need to start investing in renewable energy technologies. Not only will this position us well as we prepare for a post-oil future for future generations, but it will also create good, high-paying jobs for Alaskans that will allow our people to remain in-state. Investing in renewables also has the potential to reduce energy costs for our rural Alaskan communities.
Dana Mock (R)
I expect oil production will continue to be strong in Alaska for years to come. We are blessed to have diverse resources, and should continue to support development of all of them, from gold and critical minerals to renewable resources like wind and solar as well. An all-of-the-above energy approach is necessary to keep costs as low as possible and provide energy security.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
Oil and gas will be central to Alaska’s economy for at least another generation, particularly as extraction technologies continue to improve. We have tremendous oil resources in our state that we are being locked out of, including those in our own National Petroleum Reserve. Alaska must continue to invest in a variety of energy resource development projects including Hydro-Electric, Micro-Nuclear and Solar to some extent. While federal grants are bringing significant funding to our rural communities for solar projects, I am concerned about the longevity of the infrastructure. We must continue to develop intertie infrastructure to ensure that Alaskans can harness and share the energy they produce.
Cole Snodgress (R)
For the foreseeable future. The 10-year forecasts have petroleum as the largest private sector contributor for state revenues.
Alaska needs to increase its non-petroleum private sector revenue for a post oil future. Repeal state statutes that discourage outside investment into the state for other natural resource developments, manufacturing, and services industries.
Population: What, if anything, would you like to do to address Alaska’s dwindling working-age population?
Mike Cronk (R)
Continue doing the things that will bring young people into our state and keep ours from leaving. A strong and vibrant private sector economy is key to that. Developing our valuable resources as well as making sure we have cheap energy is key to rebuilding our population in the state.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
My husband and I are the parents of a one year-old, we live in the first and only home I’ve ever bought, and we are still paying off a mortgage. Like many in our community, our family struggled to find daycare so I could return to work, and healthcare payments are a strain each month. I understand the importance of quality jobs that provide flexibility and good salaries and benefits, because I chose to make a family and life here, and — difficulties and all — I intend for us to thrive. I’m running because I know we can’t take that future for granted. I will fight for good schools, affordable child care, affordable energy and housing, to make that future possible for my family and others.
Bert Williams (AIP)
Absolutely nothing. Importing people to ‘replace’ the missing workers does nothing except destroy the fabric of the state. The philosophy of unlimited maximized growth is that of a cancer cell and is best rejected. If one wishes to discuss the abysmal workforce participation of the youth, that’s another matter entirely. The youth don’t work because they perceive that the future is so bleak that it does not matter if they do or don’t work. Importing foreigners won’t solve that problem. Perhaps if the total plundering of the country at large had been prevented they might be more motivated, but as it is I find it understandable that the youth have no desire to trade their lives for money that buys increasingly little and can’t be reasonably saved.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
As a fifth-generation Alaskan with deep roots in Fairbanks, and a proud mother of three wonderful young men, I am passionate about making the interior of Alaska a better place to live, work and raise a family. Sadly, in recent years, we’ve seen more and more young people relocate and seek opportunities outside of the state. That has to change.
I truly believe Alaska is at a crossroads and we must begin tackling real issues that matter most to families, workers and small businesses. Ultimately, we owe it to future generations to build a state that maximizes on our opportunities and cultivates new ones.
That’s why I plan to focus my efforts on a number of critical issues, including: lowering the cost of energy, unleashing Alaska’s energy and resource development potential, growing our economy, enhancing public safety, supporting a robust education system, including the University of Alaska, addressing child care and housing shortages.
By focusing on these crucial areas, we can not only revitalize our economy but also attract and retain a vibrant working-age population, ensuring a strong future for all Alaskans.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
My parents came to Alaska for graduate school in the late 60’s. They fell in love with Alaska and knew that this was the right place to raise a family which is why I now live in the same house my parents purchased as graduate students. Alaska needs to be an attractive place to live, work, raise a family and retire once again. First, the state government needs a stable fiscal plan and a balanced budget that doesn’t rely solely on commodities prices like oil or the Permanent Fund. Second, Alaska needs to continue to invest in education from Pre-K to UA so that we continue to attract and invite the brightest to remain here. Third, we need a legislature and a governor much like the Bipartisan Senate Majority to continue to work as a team, drop off the social/party issues away at the door and truly lead.
Maxine Dibert (D)
Workforce development begins with investments in education that incentivize students to begin building their careers in our state. We made significant investments and reforms for post-high school career training and education through the Alaska Performance Scholarship, which made it available to more students and increased the scholarship amount from $4,500 up to $7,500 and created a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway. Along with these amendments, students are informed of scholarship eligibility earlier which increases the probability of students continuing their educational and professional careers in Alaska. I will continue to support these investments in education and workforce development. There are so many opportunities for employment in our state across a wide array of careers including the trades, healthcare, education, science, industry and more. I believe we need to fund educational opportunities across a wide spectrum including career and technical education, research, apprenticeships, and private-public partnerships. There is absolutely no reason our youth shouldn’t be able to obtain high paying jobs in Alaska and stay and raise families right here.
Bart LeBon (R)
Make living in Alaska the best possible option for working-age Alaskans. Quality of life, career options in a variety of fields and good education opportunities will help keep young people in our state. I believe we are still a better total living option versus most other states in the union.
Gary Damron (D)
I believe funding education, providing a living wage, affordable housing, child care, a retirement system and reducing the cost of energy would be the main parts to let younger Alaskans know we see their struggle and we are working to make Alaska the best place to live and raise a family in the country.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Implement a 5 year trailing average spending cap, reducing permitting time, increase timber leas duration and acreage, encourage multi-state licensure compacts, reduce energy cost, focus on vo-tec. education, encourage winter season tourism
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
Currently public safety professionals and teachers aren’t incentivized to stay in the state due to lack of an adequate retirement system. We should implement a defined benefit system to attract and retain high quality residents.
The high cost of living in Alaska is multiplied in the interior due to high electricity costs. Getting a reduction in those rates will make raising children more affordable on the average income.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Create good high paying jobs by promoting resource development, this will attract families to the state.
Ashley Carrick (D)
As a young Alaskan myself, I have seen the drastic impact a decade of outmigration has had on our state. I remember going to college here at UAF and having a vibrant young population all through the Fairbanks area, but most of those folks have left our state not because they didn’t love Alaska, but to seek better economic opportunities elsewhere.
To keep young professionals and young families in our state, we need the types of jobs that young professionals are seeking in the public and private sectors, with the competitive pay and benefits that will make our state a competitive place for them to decide to stay. With a vibrant population of young professionals making their homes and raising their families in Alaska, we will stem the tide of outmigration. Investing in education, community opportunities, arts and recreation, and our private sector economy will allow us to do just that.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
Alaska is so distinct as a state and so it draws a limited type of person that wants to work and live here. Developing other areas outside of the few urban areas we have would be a benefit to the state and its working-age. I think this is a nationwide issue that not only Alaska dealing with.
Pamela Goode (R)
Remove obstacles that prohibit hiring the youth in Alaska. In other states, children can start working at 14 years old. Remove mandates on employers that do the hiring. Keep minimum wage low to allow for training and the building of skills that an employer can afford. A good education normally leads to entering the workforce at some level and building from that point on. An improvement in that arena may prove helpful with filling some of the void.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
Many young Alaskans can’t afford to live and work in Alaska. We are seeing an exodus of young people and families to the Lower 48 where they have access to more educational opportunities and more jobs. We need to invest in our education system including vocational programs, professional schools, and trade schools, so that our young people don’t have to leave the state to receive a quality education. We also need to address the high cost of living in rural Alaska, which is driving young families out of our communities because they cannot afford the cost of energy, food, and housing. Finally, we need to invest in our economy, including through responsible resource development, to maintain and create good, in-state jobs.
Dana Mock (R)
We need good schools, jobs that can support a family, public safety, and support for our families who depend on subsistence.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
I would like to see our public education system overhauled to improve student engagement and identify clear pathways to employment. Work opportunities for Alaskan teenagers must be improved. They are capable of so much, yet we let them do so little. If we can bring more of our youth directly into the Alaskan workforce, and maintain the freedoms and liberties we currently enjoy, young people will want to raise their families here.
Cole Snodgress (R)
Attract outside investment into the state so there can be a more diverse economic opportunities for the working age to remain in the state.
The lion share of our grandparents came to this state in the 1900’s thru 1950’s because there was opportunity on the frontier for LAND. Title 38 Chapter 5 reform can reinvigorate this pioneering spirit, giving people already in Alaska, a new opportunity, as well as those from other states.
Ballot measures: What do you think of this year’s ballot measures, and do you intend to support or oppose them?
Mike Cronk (R)
I DON’T support raising the minimum wage but I do support getting rid of rank choice voting
Savannah Fletcher (U)
I support Ballot Measure 1, which will raise the minimum wage and require paid sick leave. Working families are the backbone of our economy, and this measure will make a meaningful difference for thousands of Alaska families.
I oppose Ballot Measure 2, which is an attempt to repeal our open primary and rank choice voting election system. Our new election system has already made the legislature more productive, and more reflective of Alaskans’ belief in working together. I do not support returning to closed primaries run by political parties.
Bert Williams (AIP)
A minimum wage of 15/hour by 2027 is largely a joke. The going wage seems to be around 15 an hour already, and still businesses are short employees. In three years time inflation will have turned that 15 dollars into a purchasing power of between 11 and 13 dollars, if we’re lucky. Mandatory sick-leave without any further guidance simply seems foolish – people working positions that have sick-leave only because it is mandated will certainly enjoy being told they need a doctor’s note. That said, I can see the appeal. I don’t know how I will vote on it yet.
Ranked choice voting’s largest problem is eliminating party primaries. If you don’t understand, you probably won’t understand. I will support its repeal.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
I am closely reviewing both ballot initiatives and strongly encourage voters to engage on these important issues. On Ballot Measure 1: I strongly support growing Alaska’s economy to continue wage growth, and believe an appropriate minimum wage should include various considerations, including local economic conditions and market analysis. While I am generally supportive of increases to Alaska’s minimum wage, I am currently considering the small business implications of this initiative and its other unrelated provisions. On Ballot Measure 2: Personally, I did not support the Ranked Choice Voting reform that narrowly passed by ballot initiative in 2020. Like many, I felt the initiative was too broadly tailored and Alaskans did not fully grasp the scope of changes to our election system. As a result, I personally plan to vote yes on Ballot Measure 2.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
I support a competitive minimum wage, paid sick leave for families and constitutional protections for all workers and will support the Ballot Measure 1. I opposed Ballot Measure 2 when it was first introduced but have come to support the intention of having an open primary so Alaskans can choose who they most support and to get rid of dark money campaigning from out of state groups. While I support Ballot Measure 2, there are some simple legislative fixes that would make the voting system more transparent and more accessible to the public.
Maxine Dibert (D)
I support ballot measure 1 because increasing the minimum wage and ensuring Alaskans have access to paid sick leave are positives for working people. Everyone deserves to earn a living wage, and no parent should have to choose between a paycheck and taking care of their sick child.
I oppose ballot measure 2 because our current election system that citizens adopted at the ballot box gives voters more choice and incentivizes bi-partisanship, civility, and good governance.
Bart LeBon (R)
I support doing away with ranked choice voting.
Gary Damron (D)
I support an increase to the Minimum Wage and I will oppose the elimination of Ranked Choice voting.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Opposed to ballot measure 1, support ballot measure 2
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
Ballot Measure 1 – yes. Alaskan residents don’t meet the poverty threshold working a minimum wage job.
Ballot Measure 2 – no.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Rank choice voting should be repealed.
Ashley Carrick (D)
I support Ballot Measure 1 which will increase Alaska’s minimum wage, provide workers with paid sick leave, and protect the constitutional rights of workers. This measure will make Alaska a better place to live and raise a family by supporting our working Alaskans.
As one of the majority of Alaskans who voted for Rank Choice Voting in 2020, I oppose Ballot Measure 2. I disagree with the idea that RCV does not work for Alaska. In the 2022 election it underwent a trial by fire with the special congressional election and under both this scenario and our regular state elections, RCV performed as advertised. It also helped elect more moderates, which is important for our political and legislative process if we want to truly get things done in our state.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
Ranked choice voting needs to make sure everyone understands its intent with both pros and cons around the idea. It’s a matter of making the average voter understands what it is and isnt’.
The increasing of minimum wage and paid sick leave needs to have the same knowledge around it as well. As a small business owner I see both sides of this. I see the idea of getting wages to the point people can ‘live’, but I also see that when that isn’t done in the competitive open economy it doesn’t drive competition it just raises prices on everyones goods and services. I would prefer this is left in the hands of the open economy so it can competitively happen, which it is currently.
Pamela Goode (R)
Ranked-Choice Voting (RCV) appears to have lost much of its support by both major parties. They are both now trying to create a general ballot that resembles one of the old voting system. The old method of elections had its flaws also. If it was ideal, I do not believe RCV would have passed in the first place. The old system was not fair to all political parties or candidates. Perhaps if RCV is overturned, those flaws can be corrected and made fair for all those involved.
Increasing minimum wage. There is something immoral when the public is allowed to place requirements on a private business owner as to what he must pay his employees whether it is affordable or not. There will come a time when businesses must shut down or new ones will not be able to open because there are to many laws, rules, regulations, and mandates to make the business financially unaffordable and impossible to operate. This will prohibit the private sector from flourishing. Please keep in mind, minimum wage was never intended to be the end of an entry into the workforce, but instead the beginning, and often times the training ground for a bigger and brighter future.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
I support Ballot Measure 1 to increase Alaska’s minimum wage, provide workers with paid sick leave, and protect workers from practices that violate their constitutional rights. Wages have not increased proportionally with inflation. The majority of Alaskans are workers. Alaskans deserve fair wages, benefits, and protections so they can provide for their families and live good lives. I oppose Ballot Measure 2 to repeal Ranked Choice voting and Open Primaries. Ranked Choice voting allows Alaskans to have their voices better represented, and to vote for the candidate they want to see in office without fear of “throwing away” their vote or the need to vote based on party lines.
Dana Mock (R)
I support open primaries because they ensure all Alaskans can participate. As a Republican, I don’t think one party’s primary should determine the representative for an entire district.
The other ballot initiative establishes a minimum wage of $15, phased in over several years. I don’t see this having a significant impact given most jobs already pay more than that.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
I oppose Ballot Measure 1 as wages and benefits are best set by market forces. Small businesses may not survive if this measure passes, whereas a business that’s growing will eventually improve pay and benefits on their own. I support Ballot Measure 2 to repeal Ranked Choice voting. It pulls voters away from core issues, and leads to lop-sided races.
Cole Snodgress (R)
I would like to see RCV repealed.
Domestic violence: How would you like to see the state address Alaska’s high rates of domestic and sexual violence?
Mike Cronk (R)
Again, this has to be addressed in every community across Alaska. Keep up our campaign against it, but we must be responsible as people to make sure we are doing everything we can as members of our communities to hold the people accountable for what they do.
Savannah Fletcher (U)
The amount of domestic violence and sexual violence in our State is unacceptable. As an attorney that has defended victims of domestic violence, I have seen firsthand how this tears communities apart and causes both short and longterm harm.
We need to provide more resources for victims, including making it easier to access housing and navigate the justice system. We also need to support more effective intervention programs to end the cycles of abuse, and make these programs accessible in urban and rural communities.
Bert Williams (AIP)
Both these problems are symptoms of a profoundly sick society with little to no sense of community. The state can’t fix that.
Leslie Hajdukovich (R)
Addressing Alaska’s high rates of domestic and sexual violence demands a comprehensive approach that engages local, state and federal partners through policy reforms, education, intervention and accountability. Examining and strengthening criminal justice statutes, improving victim support services, and advancing systemic changes like ongoing efforts to clear Alaska’s rape kit backlog are crucial steps. I also believe educational and public awareness initiatives like Alaska’s Choose Respect campaign are effective in fostering community engagement and breaking generational cycles of violence. Additionally, I believe public safety is one of the key roles of government and we must ensure we support adequate funding and resources for law enforcement, Alaska State Troopers, Village Public Safety Officers (VPSOs) to create safer communities for all Alaskans and combat human trafficking, domestic violence and abuse.
Scott Kawasaki (D)
Victims should have the best form of compensation through the crimes compensation board and we need to ensure that restitution is always paid by survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. Mass incarceration of Alaskans does not work. People who find themselves in prison or in pretrial need to have access to counseling and treatment for drugs or alcohol. Judges should be empowered to give sentences that use models like the Therapeutic Courts but in a much larger scale.
Maxine Dibert (D)
Addressing the issue of domestic and sexual violence requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes prevention, victim support, and systemic change. First, we must invest in prevention strategies that promote healthy relationships from the start. Secondly, we need to strengthen our support services for survivors, which includes increasing funding for shelters and counseling programs. We must continue to hold perpetrators accountable in the courts and ensure that survivors have access to the resources they need to heal. I support anything and everything we can do to address our worsening crisis of missing and murdered indigenous persons in this state. Last session we did pass some funding increases in this area but more is needed. I believe it is important we shine a very bright light on the issues of domestic and sexual violence so that we can make real inroads in reducing the high rates in our state.
Bart LeBon (R)
Much of this violence traces back to substance abuse. Programs to reduce this abuse would help curb the violence as would additional law enforcement action against the individuals who commit these crimes.
Gary Damron (D)
This is dear to my heart as I have seen so any Alaskan families deal with this issue. Prevention is the key. We have to look at ourselves and realize we have a serious problem. Educating the youth is paramount and is the only way we can end the cycle.
Will Stapp (R)
Mike Prax (R)
Focus on fixing problems with Office of Child Services & foster care,
Joy Beth Cottle (R)
Reducing domestic and sexual violence in Alaska requires a multi-pronged approach. As a first responder, I have had the privilege of being a safe space and friend for victims in the aftermath of an assault. Being the first female firefighter/paramedic ever hired at Fairbanks Fire Department and often the only other woman in the room has given me a firsthand view of the devastation caused by domestic violence in families across Alaska. Recognizing that alcohol abuse often contributes to escalating physical injuries and that leaving an abusive situation is a critical but personal decision for the victim, I support victims in their journey toward safety and independence.
In my efforts to contribute to a safer Alaska, I am dedicated to empowering women with the training and education necessary to achieve financial independence. I envision a community where relationships are built on mutual respect and consent.
Frank Tomaszewski (R)
Prosecute and incarcerate guilty perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law, get them off the streets and send the message this will not be tolerated in Alaska.
Ashley Carrick (D)
Alaska leads the nation in our rates of domestic violence and sexual assault, and it is long past time that we tackle and reverse this alarming trajectory. I was proud this year to support legislation to reduce the backlog of missing and murdered indigenous people’s cases, which passed the Legislature with tremendous bi-partisan support. As a proactive measure, I was also the proud sponsor of HB 17, my contraceptive coverage bill that will mandate a 12 month supply of birth control to be covered by insurance, if prescribed by a doctor. This bill reduces the phenomenon known as “contraceptive coercion” whereby abusers control access to a woman’s pharmacist and pregnancy autonomy.
There are many solutions to this significant problem, and I hope to continue working on these efforts with my colleagues of all political stripes in the coming session.
Ruben McNeill (R)
James Fields (L)
I would like to see a drastic reduction of both. I live in rural Alaska and I see and hear about this often. It’s a hard one to crack into and see significant changes in behavior, I think a part of it is the mental and physical health of our community members and cracking down on those selling illegal substances to our community members. We have a lot of work to do in this area and there are no easy answers.
Pamela Goode (R)
If this is to be addressed seriously, then serious measures need to taken. It is complex because it involves more than the violent act. Drugs and alcohol are often times involved. The innocence of children are involved. There must be a true desire for there to be change and personal responsibility is a necessary but reluctant part of the solution. One thing we know is, doing nothing will only deliver more of the same at an increasing rate. Doing nothing is morally unacceptable.
Brandon “Putuuqti” Kowalski (D)
If this is to be addressed seriously, then serious measures need to taken. It is complex because it involves more than the violent act. Drugs and alcohol are often times involved. The innocence of children are involved. There must be a true desire for there to be change and personal responsibility is a necessary but reluctant part of the solution. One thing we know is, doing nothing will only deliver more of the same at an increasing rate. Doing nothing is morally unacceptable.
Dana Mock (R)
Many of our rural communities’ lack infrastructure to provide shelter and housing for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault—this is a key task I would work to address as a Representative. We also need to ensure all communities have Troopers, police, VPSOs, or TPOs in community. It is unacceptable when communities have safety incidents and have to wait hours or days for response. Finally, since addiction is at the root of many of our public safety issues, I strongly support efforts to reduce alcoholism through better substance misuse treatment and prevention. We need to help our young people learn healthy habits at a young age, and this requires strong partnership with local health providers and schools.
Rebecca Schwanke (R)
Alaska must prosecute offenders to the fullest extent. Concurrently, we must allocate adequate resources to fight the influx of illegal drugs into our state.
Cole Snodgress (R)
This is something I need to research carefully more about.
SOURCE: Alaska Beacon