ANCHORAGE, AK – The Alaska House Republican Caucus today issued a strong statement of support following a series of major announcements by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum that mark a turning point for Alaska’s future.
The actions, announced in Washington, D.C., include finalization of permits for the Ambler Access Project, advancement of the King Cove Road agreement, issuance of a new Record of Decision to enable lease sales in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), and the signing of land allotments for Alaska Native Vietnam-era veterans.
House Republican Leader Rep. Mia Costello (R–Anchorage) praised the decisions, calling them “a bold step toward unleashing Alaska’s full potential.”
“This has been a monumental week for Alaska. From honoring our Native veterans to unlocking long-delayed infrastructure and energy opportunities, these actions are about putting Alaskans to work and ensuring our future is built right here at home. We are especially grateful to President Trump for keeping Alaska front and center in his vision for a stronger America. Our state is ready to lead — and this week shows we finally have partners in Washington who believe that too.”
“With new Alaska resource development projects, we bring needed jobs and financial security for individual Alaskans,” said Rep. Rebecca Schwanke (R-Glennallen). “We can bring economic opportunities to our rural communities and protect the natural resources they rely on at the same time.”
The Republican Caucus emphasized the long-standing Republican support for responsible resource development, rural connectivity, and expanding access to public lands for Alaska Natives and veterans.
“We’re seeing what real partnership between Alaska and Washington looks like,” said Rep. George Rauscher (R–Sutton). “This is mainly because we have Governor Dunleavy fighting hard for these projects in conjunction with a federal team under President Trump – including Secretary Burgum and others who truly understand Alaska – that this progress is finally happening. Along with strong support from our Congressional delegation, Alaska is once again in a position to lead America’s energy future, strengthen our economy, and secure our role in powering the nation.”
The issuance of a new Record of Decision for ANWR lease sales comes at a time when energy costs remain high and global instability continues to threaten U.S. supply chains.
“We’ve been waiting a long time for this kind of leadership,” said Rep. Bill Elam (R–Nikiski). “These decisions send a clear message that Alaska’s resources, communities, and people matter. When we open doors for development, we open the door to a stronger Alaska.”
Media Contact: Amanda Bohman, 907-378-6809