Bipartisan Coalitions Take Control of Alaska House and Senate in 34th Legislature
In a significant shift, bipartisan coalitions will be in control of both the Alaska House and Senate in the 34th Alaska Legislature following the general election, lawmakers announced on Wednesday. The House will transition from a Republican-led majority to a majority coalition, with Rep. Bryce Edgmon taking the gavel as speaker. The coalition’s priorities include balanced budgets, stable public education, retirement reform, and energy development.
In the Senate, a bipartisan coalition that started in November 2022 will continue, with Sen. Gary Stevens staying on as Senate president. The coalition’s priorities for the Senate include creating a stronger workforce, enhancing the public education system, and investing in reliable infrastructure for Alaska. Members of both coalitions expressed their commitment to working across party lines for the benefit of all Alaskans.
The House coalition will be led by a diverse group of lawmakers, including Republicans and Democrats. Rep. Louise Stutes will serve as the Rules Committee Chair, and Rep. Chuck Kopp will serve as Majority Leader. In the Senate, Sen. Cathy Giessel will continue to serve as Majority Leader, and Sen. Bill Wielechowski will serve as Rules Committee Chair.
Both coalitions are focusing on addressing the needs of Alaskans, including filling police vacancies, providing outstanding public schools, and growing the economy. The bipartisan approach is aimed at creating tangible improvements that benefit all communities in the state. Full membership and committee assignments for both coalitions will be announced after ballots are certified on Nov. 20.
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