FAIRBANKS -- Alaska Republicans are taking applications to replace state Sen. Gene Therriault, the veteran North Pole lawmaker who announced his resignation to take a job with the Parnell administration.

Therriault will advise Parnell on energy issues.

Therriault's District F covers North Pole, Delta Junction, Paxson, Glennallen and Valdez.

Party officials say they will evaluate applicants' written and oral skills at a Sept. 19 meeting in Delta Junction.

North Pole Rep. John Coghill is considered a leading candidate for the job. He was elected to the state House in 1998.