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Yesterday, Lt. Gov. Byron Mallott posted this image on his Facebook page. Looking at the list of accomplishments you can understand why many people, including us at the The Midnight Sun questioned the lack of substance on the list.
The Governor’s office quickly sent us a note saying the post was intended to be “fun and lighthearted” and directed us to a page containing a more substantial list of first year milestones.
In fairness to the Governor, here is that list. Judge the list for yourself:
Dear Alaskans,
A year ago today, we took the oath of office as the first non-partisan administration in Alaska’s history. We pledged to faithfully serve the people of Alaska. It has been a tremendous honor and a duty we take very seriously.
Looking back on this first year, we are thankful for the broad, collective effort that enabled us to achieve major milestones.
Bringing federally funded health care to thousands of Alaskans who lacked health insurance
Advancing a natural gas pipeline project and asserting greater State control, thanks to members of the Legislature
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Initiating efforts to ensure our transboundary water quality and habitat integrity are protected by engaging with the British Columbia government and including Alaska stakeholders and tribes in dealing with the ongoing issue
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Working with independent oil company Caelus to advance its Nuna project and with ConocoPhillips to obtain federal approval for the Greater Mooses Tooth 1 development project
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Meeting thousands of Alaskans across the state at the Governor’s Picnics
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With the Legislature, taking steps to protect our most vulnerable with nearly unanimous passage of the Alaska Safe Children’s Act, thanks to the Legislature
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Building bridges and building community across Alaska through Bridge Builders
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Easing the adoption process so Alaska Native children can stay with relatives or tribal members, thanks to collaborative input from Alaska Federation of Natives leadership
Engaging thousands of Alaskans in charting the future of our state through our transition conference, budget surveys, and sustainable future conversations and with lawmakers, cutting State general fund spending by 19 percent
Taking steps to restore public trust by investigating and addressing systemic problems in the Alaska National Guard and Department of Corrections and appointment of the first female Adjutant General for the State of Alaska
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Increasing Alaskans’ access at the ballot box by settling a historic voting rights language assistance case
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Without a doubt, the highlight for both of us has been the opportunity to talk to so many great Alaskans. We have learned about the needs across our state, and have been moved by the talents, generosity, and resourcefulness Alaskans have to offer.
We will need to call on these strengths as we face the challenge of balancing our budget in a sustainable way. Every challenge is an opportunity — and our $3.5 billion budget gap is an opportunity to provide government services more efficiently, to diversify our economy, and to put our wealth to work for us in the most effective way possible.
By putting Alaska first and pulling togeth
er, we can create opportunity now and in the future, so our children and grandchildren can thrive in this beautiful place we call home. Thank you for entrusting us to help lead our state in this time of challenge and opportunity.With warm regards,
Governor Bill Walker
Lt. Governor Byron Mallott
Matt Acuña Buxton is a long-time political reporter who has written for the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner and The Midnight Sun political blog. He also authors the daily politics newsletter, The Alaska Memo, and can frequently be found live-tweeting public meetings on Twitter.
