JUNEAU, Alaska — The Alaska House and Senate Republican Caucuses today issued a joint statement following what they described as disrespectful actions by Rep. Zack Fields, D-Anchorage, during Congressman Nick Begich III’s annual address to a Joint Session of the Alaska Legislature.
During the formal proceedings, Rep. Fields repeatedly held up a sign reading “ICE Out,” referencing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Republican leaders characterized the act as a breach of decorum and a disservice to the visiting representative of Alaska’s federal delegation. They said the display was a clear violation of Uniform Rule 26, Mason’s Manual, and the established customs and traditions of the Alaska Legislature.
“A Joint Session is a time-honored tradition intended for the exchange of ideas between our federal and state representatives. It is not a venue for juvenile protest or political theater. Representative Fields’ decision to use the floor of the House as a backdrop for a prop-based protest is an insult to the office of the Congressman and to the Alaskans we all serve,” said Sen. Mike Cronk, R-Northway.
“Sitting on the House floor during our Congressman’s annual keynote address is not the place for disruption and waving protest signs. This behavior reflects a lack of professional maturity and a blatant disregard for the rules of this body. We should be focused on the serious issues facing Alaska—energy, infrastructure, and the economy—not catering to a singular member’s need for social media attention,” said Rep. DeLena Johnson, R-Palmer.
The Republican Caucuses emphasized that while they respect the First Amendment rights of every individual legislator, the privilege of being seated on the floor of the House of Representatives carries the responsibility to maintain a standard of conduct that reflects the dignity of the institution. They said bringing hand-held signs into a Joint Session creates a hostile and unprofessional environment that distracts from the critical federal-state partnership necessary for Alaska’s success.
The Republican Caucuses in both the House and Senate are calling on legislative leadership to review the incident and take whatever steps are necessary to ensure future Joint Sessions are conducted with the gravity and respect they deserve.
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