Newly elected Democrat Senator Mark Begich of Alaska has come out fighting for Alaska’s view to open the 10-02 Area of ANWR to environmentally responsible oil and gas exploration. Senator Begich issued pro-ANWR statements Friday in reaction to the proposed introduction of Senator Joseph Lieberman’s (I-CT) repeat anti-ANWR bills. Senator Begich pointed out that over 75% of Alaskans favor responsible development of ANWR’s coastal plain.
Congressman Don Young (R) of Alaska was sworn in to his 19th term as the sole Member of Congress representing Alaska today(Jan 9th). His first act was to re-introduce his ANWR bill the American Energy Independence and Price Reduction Act (HR. 49). The bill was originally introduced in 2008 as HR.6107 and achieved a record 181 co-sponsors, more than any other ANWR bill.