Issues
Responsible Resource Development
Energy independence is key to our country’s security and Alaska holds the resources to make this possible. I support the responsible development and utilization of all Alaska’s natural resources. Optimum natural resource development policies are those that balance development and conservation interests.
Affordable Healthcare
As a health care provider, I understand Alaska has the most expensive healthcare in the nation and urgently needs health care cost reform. The high costs are unsustainable for Alaskans, and for our state budget. Reforms must promote price transparency, allow for competition, and improve the efficiency and accessibility of health care for hardworking families.
Family Supporting Jobs for Alaskans
I am committed to building up our local resident workforce by supporting job training and vocational programs that provide the employment tools and opportunities for Alaskans in all phases of project development. It is necessary to fill the hundreds of vacant positions currently available in Alaska to power an inclusive recovery of Alaska’s economy.
Effective Education
Parents have the primary authority and responsibility for the education of their children. To this end Alaskan families need a robust public education system that prepares all children to be good citizens and workforce ready. We need state policies and regulations that promote school choice, charter schools, and education compacts with our Tribal governments.
Safe Kids, Families & Communities
We want to live in a state in which our children and families can flourish, where public safety is regarded as a basic human right and we work collaboratively to provide best possible supports and solutions to populations struggling with homelessness, substance abuse and behavioral health disorders.
Improved Transportation System
The Port of Alaska, airports, roads, bridges, and marine highways provide critical connections throughout this vast state that keep our schools open, businesses prosperous, and communities connected. The safety of our transportation system requires significant maintenance and upkeep. Recent federal infrastructure funding should be expedited into projects and jobs that ensure the safety of our traveling public.
Balanced Budget without Income Tax
I have consistently fought for and supported balanced budgets that do not overdraw the Permanent Fund to pay for state services and dividends. During my time in office the Permanent Fund grew more than 60% in total market value and today is Alaska’s primary revenue source to pay for state services Alaskans depend on. I do not support raising taxes on hardworking families in order to pay out unsustainable dividends.
Protect & Grow Permanent Fund
I have concerns about placing the permanent fund dividend in our state constitution. I do not believe this benefit in state statute should preclude the legislature’s duty to balance the budget, or be elevated to the natural rights of conscience, thought, and expression now protected in our constitution. I am committed to protecting the State’s Sovereign Wealth Fund and ensuring it’s continued growth.
Preserve Constitutional Rights
I am committed to defending our Constitutional Rights contained in Article 1, including the Right to Privacy regarding healthcare decisions, financial information, and more.