ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Garret Nelson, of Sutton, and Steve St. Clair, of Wasilla, took the oath of office today, becoming the newest members of the Alaska House of Representatives.
House Republicans confirmed them following their Christmas Eve appointments by Gov. Mike Dunleavy.
“I am humbled and honored to have been nominated, appointed and confirmed to represent House District 26,” Rep. St. Clair said. “I will continue to build upon the conservative values that have been established by my predecessor. District 26 has always stood for doing what is right. I will continue in that legacy and represent the people.”
“I am honored to represent the hard-working people of District 29,” Rep. Nelson said. “I look forward to being part of a team that will champion resource development and long-term fiscal responsibility. Alaskans have the resources and attitude to lay a foundation for generations upon generations of prosperity, and I am thankful for the opportunity to play a part in that.”
Rep. St. Clair adds a sixth military veteran to the House Republican Caucus. He formerly staffed the Office of Rep. Cathy Tilton. The 54-year-old husband and father of two is a retired Military Police First Sergeant, has a master’s degree in business administration, and a track record of trying to reduce the state budget.
Rep. Nelson is a 41-year-old husband, father of nine, and chairman of the Sutton Community Council. He’s worked as a cattleman, union pipe welder, sole proprietor, and salesman.
“I am prepared to support the hard decisions required to bring our fiscal house in order,” he said.
Speaker Bryce Edgmon swore in the two new state leaders at the Legislative Information Office in Anchorage. Minority Leader Rep. DeLena Johnson, R-Palmer, also attended the ceremony.
“I am very pleased that our new members have business experience and have a finance background,” Rep. Johnson said. “This knowledge will be integral to establishing a fiscal plan and creating a balanced, sustainable budget during this upcoming session. I congratulate our new valley members and warmly welcome them to the Alaska House of Representatives.”
The 34th Alaska Legislature starts a five-month-long session on Jan. 20.
Media Contact: Amanda Bohman, 907-378-6809
Rep. Garret Nelson, R-Sutton, flanked by Minority Leader Rep. DeLena Johnson, R-Palmer, on
left and Speaker of the House Bryce Edgmon, I-Dillingham, on the right.
Rep. Steve St. Clair, R-Wasilla, flanked by Minority Leader Rep. DeLena Johnson, R-Palmer, on
left and Speaker of the House Bryce Edgmon, I-Dillingham, on the right.