Priorities

Legislative Accomplishments

  • Helped secure a historic Base Student Allotment (BSA) increase, a $144 million K-12 school funding increase, and implemented school energy cost reimbursement. 

  • Co-Chaired the House Energy Committee, leading energy development initiatives and renewable and diversified energy policy.  Improved efficiencies and doubled available funding for the Bulk Fuel Loan program, providing cost-relief for Alaskans in rural communities. Protected consumers from excessive natural gas import costs. Worked successfully to increase awards for top-ranking Renewable Energy Fund projects. 

  • Led legislation allowing economic development land transfer in the City of Whittier. Advanced legislation creating an Alaska Innovation Council and Office of Entrepreneurship, driving Alaska’s economy into the future. Attained critical matching funds for the NSF Engines program - a historic investment in the state’s innovation sector. 

  • Brought in major investments for House District 9, including $116 million for Seward Highway improvements, $27.5 million for vessel and terminal upgrades in the Alaska Marine Highway system, $1.6 million for avalanche mitigation, and $1.5 million for Whittier's Emergency Medical and Response services. 

  • Passed legislation to improve wildfire preparedness, advanced bills to protect critical public roads and utility infrastructure from wildfires and environmental changes, and protected full funding for fire suppression and disaster relief, keeping communities safe.

Alaskan Opportunity

Opportunity should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or location. I am dedicated to creating policies that promote equality, support local and emerging businesses, and enhance community services. These policies will be grounded in the uniqueness of Alaska and developed in consultation and cooperation with Alaskan native and tribal organizations to address the challenges of climate changes, sensitive remote arctic development and opportunities for future generations.

Inspiring Education

As a university instructor and student advisor, father and a proud husband to a school librarian, I know firsthand the importance of education to the future of our state.. As your representative, I worked to increase student funding and fight the policies that have shuttered schools across the state. I’ve supported reducing class sizes, providing key resources to our school teachers, and building an education system that empowers students to achieve their full potential.

Energy Security

As Co-Chair of the House Energy Committee, I’ve leaned on my experience as a business leader, engineer, and entrepreneur to create innovative energy policies. I expanded and improved efficiencies in the bulk fuel loan program, driving down energy costs; increased state investment for the most promising renewable energy projects; and worked with the utilities, resource developers and the RCA to help energy projects meet our needs for reliable and affordable energy.  I want Alaska to lead the energy future with a balanced path of oil and gas investment, in-state renewable production, and innovative energy technologies.

The Economy of the Future

I believe in the possibility of a resilient and innovative state economy that supports prosperity for all Alaskans, from healthy rural communities to vibrant urban centers. This future depends on restoring a foundational partnership between public and private sectors. While strong businesses create jobs and investments, quality public services can deliver a skilled workforce, healthy communities, and predictable business conditions.  I've worked to build that foundation by championing entrepreneurship and innovation, supporting workforce development, and creating the conditions for businesses to grow, develop products and services, and launch new ventures. I don’t believe in managing decline - I believe in a fiscal plan that encourages Alaskan investment and restores confidence in public-private partnerships.

Local Infrastructure

Infrastructure is the backbone of thriving communities and local economies. For our district, infrastructure includes our highways, the bike trails in our parks, our rail lines, and our barge and rail services and ferry terminals. Infrastructure also includes the resources available for disaster prevention and mitigation. I will prioritize capital budget projects that will enhance transportation, keep us safe, and provide reliable utilities across the state. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community that will keep families in Alaska.