ANCHORAGE, Alaska – House Republicans today affirmed caucus leadership and adjusted committee assignments as the 34th Alaska Legislature prepares for its second session to start in 10 days.
The House Republicans selected Rep. DeLena Johnson, R-Palmer, as minority leader, and Rep. Justin Ruffridge, R-Soldotna, as the minority whip. Both leaders will also join the House Energy Committee.
Rep. Elexie Moore, R-Wasilla, will join the House Finance Committee, succeeding Johnson, who is leaving the committee after five years to lead the caucus.
In other changes:
Rep. Mike Prax, R-Fairbanks, will join the House Resources Committee.
New members Rep. Steve St. Clair, R-Wasilla, and Rep. Garret Nelson, R-Sutton, will both serve on the House Transportation and Community & Regional Affairs committees. St. Clair will additionally serve on the House State Affairs Committee.
Ruffridge will join the House Tribal Affairs Committee, and Johnson will serve on the House Rules Committee.
The new committee assignments must be confirmed through adoption of the Committee on Committees report after the Legislature convenes on Jan. 20.
Rep. Julie Coulombe, R-Anchorage, will join the Legislative Budget & Audit Committee after her name is forwarded to the Speaker of the House for ratification.
Media Contact: Amanda Bohman, 907-378-6809