Issues

Climate Change

Addressing the climate crisis is one of the most important challenges we face. In fact, Alaska is warming at twice the rate of the rest of the U.S. I will address climate crisis impacts to Alaskans, but will also seize the opportunity to create jobs and lead Alaska into the clean energy economy. Climate Change is affecting our fishing economy, our subsistence harvest cycles, our recreation industry, our energy industry both on the supply and demand sides, our transportation systems, and many other aspects of Alaskan life. For example, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers identified erosion threats to 31 communities, including seven (Bethel, Dillingham, Kaktovik, Kivalina, Newtok, Shishmaref, and Unalakleet) requiring partial or complete relocation.

We need to ensure that we responsibly develop our natural resources and human capital in ways that complement rather than conflict with our potential for growth across a wider range of opportunities – and that means preserving the things that make Alaska great. That’s why, for instance, I will continue to oppose the Pebble Mine project that threatens Bristol Bay, our natural salmon fishery and the livelihood of those who live there and fish those waters. 

Alaska has vast opportunities in our abundant renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, geothermal, tidal, wave, biomass, hydroelectric, and pumped energy storage. I will move Alaska forward into sustainable, 21st century economic and energy growth. Alaska’s diverse natural resources provide abundant opportunities to diversify our energy mix and maintain a balance between preservation and production for our state’s sustained health and prosperity.

As your United States congressman, I will 

  • Work to develop affordable energy options for Alaskans using energy tax credits;
  • Promote funding and increase federal investment in clean energy sources, sustainable energy infrastructure, energy efficiency and conservation; and 
  • Promote the export of Alaska’s expertise in technologies such as microgrids.
  • Support funding to remedy or mitigate damage to public infrastructure not at risk from erosion and permafrost degradation.