November 02, 2016
Wednesday PM

After teaching and coaching in the Ketchikan public school system for 32 years, I was astounded to read a public letter by our school board president and local Republican Party Chairman, Trevor Shaw, claiming I don't support education.

Mr. Shaw's letter also repeats allegations of partisanship made in negative ads from outside PACs, cherry-picking three out of hundreds of donors who've contribute to my campaign. He doesn't mention nay of the conservative donors I'm proud to say appear in my disclosures. Shaw claims I am a Democrat, but my voting record is closest to Senator Stedman's on all the major issues. I will be crystal clear: I am neither Democrat nor Republican. I am independent and have been for over eight years. I work beyond party lines. My voting record and my support from Republicans and Democrats testifies to this.

Shaw and party Republicans are also "spinning" my budget vote. I voted no on the budget because funding it with $3 billion-plus of savings was irresponsible, reflecting zero progress toward a sustainable fiscal plan. I voted against the majority's budget in protest-something my independent status allows for.

If the Republican majority continues down their path, Alaska's savings will soon be exhausted. Will they then begin draining the permanent fund earnings reserve that produces our PFD checks? I voted against their budget because I want to protect the PFD for all Alaskans, their children and grandchildren.

It's unbecoming of our School Board president to participate in a partisan attack. My more than three decades of time spent teaching and coaching the youth of Ketchikan speak volumes about my commitment to public education. An apology would be appreciated, Mr. Shaw.

Please vote on Nov. 8. Every day I work hard representing all of District 36 to the best of my ability through positive leadership. Solving Alaska's fiscal crisis will take much more than drawing lines in the sand. If we're to lead Alaska into the future, we need voices who build alliances across party lines for solutions, not more division.

Dan Ortiz
Ketchikan, Alaska

Received November 02, 2016 - Published November 02, 2016

About: About: Dan Ortiz is an independent member of the Alaska House of Representatives, who has since 2015 represented the 36th District. He is running for re-election.

Related Viewpoints:

Ortiz Loyal to Outside Special Interests; Republican Bob Sivertsen committed to the citizens of District 36 By Trevor A. Shaw

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