Alaska Legislature Approves Majority of Appointments
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – The Alaska Legislature approved most of Governor Mike Dunleavy’s appointments to state boards and commissions on Wednesday, during a joint session of the House and Senate. According to James Brooks with the Alaska Beacon, out of 99 officials awaiting confirmation, only two were rejected: physician assistant Samantha Smith for the state medical board and principal Kimberly Bergey for the Professional Teaching Practices Commission.
The notable rejection of Smith’s nomination came via a 0-60 vote, marking what Senate President Gary Stevens described as a “remarkable” occurrence, as no nominee has recalled failing to garner a single vote in favor throughout his legislative career since 2000. Lawmakers expressed concerns over Smith’s qualifications, emphasizing significant opposition from the Alaska Academy of Physician Assistants and individual PAs across the state.
Rep. Andrew Gray mentioned that Smith’s experience at a chiropractic office did not align with the typical responsibilities of physician assistants. Smith’s confirmation hearings further raised alarms, with accusations of HIPAA violations and unsettling statements regarding medical malpractice. Sen. Matt Claman noted ongoing concerns about her performance, while Rep. Mike Prax acknowledged her enthusiasm but questioned some comments made during hearings.
Following Smith’s rejection, Brent Taylor was approved for the medical board with a 33-27 vote. In another rejection, legislators turned down Bergey’s renomination due to a lack of required endorsement from the state principals association, with 33 voting against her.
Last year saw 78 of 81 nominees approved, while 2023 yielded 77 out of 78 confirmations. This story was republished with permission from the Alaska Beacon.
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Photo credit www.alaskasnewssource.com
