The vaccine has begun to arrive. But many Alaskans are still in danger and still in deep financial trouble. Where are our state and federal leaders? Gov. Mike Dunleavy never holds events to take questions or comments from the public. In fact, he rarely has press conferences, and when he does, he only permits certain questions. On occasion, he grants interviews to his friends or Lower 48 news outlets. Sens. Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski have once or twice done virtual town halls, but not for a long, long while. Who knows what “beer virus” Don Young is up to. If he is advocating for COVID-19 relief for Alaskans, I haven’t heard about it.
There are only two places where Anchorage residents can go to directly speak to elected leaders. One is the School Board, and the other is the Anchorage Assembly. Week after week, these meetings remain open for public participation. It’s no wonder our Assembly and School Board members have become lightning rods for deep frustration over the pandemic. They deserve our thanks for continuing to listen. Our other elected leaders are either afraid of us or just can’t be bothered.
Emily Becker
Anchorage
Have something on your mind? Send to letters@adn.com or click here to submit via any web browser. Letters under 200 words have the best chance of being published. Writers should disclose any personal or professional connections with the subjects of their letters. Letters are edited for accuracy, clarity and length.