Readers write: Letters to the editor, October 31, 2017

Why open NPR-A and ANWR?

Andy Mack's (commissioner of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources) commentary of Oct. 27 concerning NPR-A was very informative and stated primarily that opening NPR-A to oil development shows huge economic potential for Alaska. Great news, I suppose. But, if so, why is there also the big push to open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well? Is it just greed or is opening ANWR really necessary? Sen. Murkowski and Sullivan, as well as Don Young, think it's necessary. I'm asking because I don't agree, and I'd like an honest answer. Thanks.

— Wayne Jones
Palmer

Stabilize health markets

The recent announcement of bipartisan legislation to help stabilize the health insurance markets, while also providing protection for pre-existing conditions, is an important step forward in the ongoing health care debate. We applaud Sen. Alexander and Murray for their leadership on the issue, thank Sen. Murkowski for her endorsement of the Alexander-Murray bill, and strongly encourage Sen. Sullivan to cosponsor this bill also.

It is imperative that the health insurance markets are stabilized while also ensuring quality health insurance is affordable and available to all. Additionally, as the proposal makes its way through the legislative process, we call on our senators to protect the thousands of Alaskans suffering from lung disease by protecting pre-existing condition coverage.

The American Lung Association in Alaska supports this effort and we look forward to working with our delegation to ensure that all Alaskans have affordable, quality health insurance.

— Marge Stoneking
executive director, American Lung Association in Alaska
Anchorage

Leaders, stand up to Trump

It's time for Alaska's elected representatives to speak up about the shocking and inexcusable behavior of President Trump. There are parallels between the political climate today and that of the '50s when Joseph McCarthy dominated the headlines. It took years for politicians then to stand up and denounce McCarthy for his lies and persecution. It is time for Rep. Young and Sens. Sullivan and Murkowski to join Sens. McCain, Flake and Corker in speaking out and giving voice to the concerns that so many Alaskans have about the conduct of this president.

The environment in Washington politics is toxic and President Trump only exacerbates the situation with his messages of hate, ugliness, and divisiveness. He dishonors the office of president with his lies and disgraceful lack of civility. Do we want our children and grandchildren to model this abhorrent behavior? Rep. Young and Sens. Sullivan and Murkowski, please stand with the others who have put the country before political party and said, enough is enough.

— Gary Griffeth
Anchorage

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