Start of the 31st Legislature

My staff work for you

Dear Neighbor,

I want to introduce you to Grace Kubitz and Tristan Walsh, life-long Alaskans who work in my office to represent you.

Tristan Walsh was born and raised in Fairbanks. He is an identical triplet and former volunteer organizer with the American Cancer Society. He graduated from UAF and has a corgi mix named Waffles.

Grace Kubitz was born and raised in Anchorage. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Political Science in April and moved home shortly after. Grace is currently pursuing her Masters in Public Administration and in her free time, she loves to be outside enjoying the great outdoors.

Gubernatorial Appointments:

I have heard from many of you with concerns about some of Governor Dunleavy’s appointees, particularly those who have made violent and vulgar statements. I share your concerns and appreciate you writing to share your views. Unfortunately, the nomination of people like this distracts from other credible nominations. I’ve met with Commissioner-designees Julie Anderson (DCCED), Adam Crum (DHSS) and Torrence Saxe (DMVA), and appreciate their detailed answers to my questions and commitment to their departments.

Budget:

I am very concerned about proposed budget cuts to our schools, public safety, and health care programs including addiction treatment. I will be working to protect these core programs, which are essential to safety in our neighborhoods and a healthy economy. We will see a full budget proposal on February 13 ^th , and I look forward to hearing from you about that proposal.

Alaska Constitution:

Taking a page from a “ long time opponent of Alaska’s Constitution ,” the Governor has proposed three Constitutional amendments that would gut our education system, disinvest from key capital investments, and lock Alaska into perpetual budget deficits. Legislators have given these proposals an icy reception.

Thank you to everyone who has come by my office, called, or emailed to weigh in on Commissioner confirmations, the budget, and other issues before the legislature.

Zack