Alaskans for Begich

Background:

I am in my fifth year as mayor of Alaska's largest city, Anchorage, where I am known for being a problem solver. I am the first mayor born in our city. My father, Nick Begich, served as Alaska's third congressman.

I have worked to ensure that Anchorage's increasingly diverse population - where 95 languages are spoken among public school students - share in our city's prosperity. I have also been a strong supporter of involving young people in the political process. For three years during my tenure, Anchorage has been named one of America's "100 Best Communities for Young People" by America's Promise.

I have been a national leader on Climate Change issues with the U.S. Conference of Mayors. I have worked to build anon-partisan coalition to support sustainable development to create jobs, reduce waste and save taxpayers money. My initiatives include green building legislation, using recycling to promote economic development, as well as our nationally renowned program energy efficient street lighting project.

I live with my wife of 17 years, Deborah Bonito, and our young son, Jacob, in East Anchorage.

Goals:

I want to bring honest and ethical leadership for Alaskans to the U.S. Senate. I will stand up strongly for working families, not for special interests. I will work to bring diverse viewpoints together to get things done. I am part of is a new generation of leadership emerging in our state and in our country. Americans are facing a crisis in leadership which has left our country mired in failed policies relating to the war, energy issues, the environment and our economy. I seek a change in our national direction.

Issues:

Ethics. I pledge to take a new set of ethics to Washington, one that ensures our senators are working for Alaska families, not special or personal interests.

Climate Change and Energy. We must develop environmentally sound, long-term energy solutions to help our residents with spiraling energy costs. We need a Marshall Plan to invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Iraq. It is time for America to safely and responsibly redeploy our troops out of Iraq. Our troops have served admirably, but political leadership has failed them with no plan, inadequate equipment and diplomatic neglect.

Education. The Bush administration’s No Child Left Behind law has been a disaster in Alaska and as Senator I will work to return to an education policy that respects community needs not federal dictates.

Grassroots Support:

My campaign is a grassroots campaign involving thousands of Alaskans in door-to-door, fundraising, phone and internet outreach. Our goal is to create a lasting movement by involving citizens in all parts of the state to take back our state and nation.

DFA Values:

As mayor in a conservative state, I have worked hard to build public trust in government thorough sound fiscal management and balanced budgets. I will continue to advocate for fiscally responsible policies in the U.S. Senate. At the same time, I will be a strong advocate for social justice for all Americans.