November 05, 2016
Saturday AM

Editor,

As we all know, our state is facing some of its most difficult fiscal conditions in its history. The next few years will require important conversations about what is important to our state and what our priorities are, followed by significant and difficult decisions. Now, more than ever, it is important for Ketchikan and the entire Southeast region to have a seat at the table when those conversations take place. Being a member of the majority isn’t about political party, it’s about having that seat at the table.

Rep. Ortiz’s membership in the minority has left us out of the conversation when decisions are being made that have great consequence to our community, region, and the entire state. Rep. Ortiz has been in lockstep with Gov. Walker as he has made disastrous decisions for our state’s economy, going so far as to state that he fully supports the governor’s decisions, including vetoing half of the funding for the Permanent Fund Dividend.

Bob Sivertsen is a lifelong Ketchikan resident who can provide the effective representation that Ketchikan needs in this challenging environment. He is knowledgeable about local and statewide issues. This understanding of the whole picture will be crucial as legislators work together to serve the best interests of the state as a whole. Rep. Ortiz doesn’t seem to understand the issues around important statewide issues such as oil tax policy. While Rep. Ortiz was cozying up to the Democrats and one of the most divisive governor’s in Alaska’s history, Bob was representing the people of Ketchikan on the City Council, building relationships with leaders around the state, and learning about issues that are important to the entire state.

As a lifelong resident of District 36, I want the best leadership we can get to ensure that we have an important place in the future of our state. Dan may be a nice guy, but he has proven that he is not our guy. Bob Sivertsen will be a powerful advocate for Ketchikan and all of District 36, and he will be a strong partner for Sen. Stedman in ensuring that the interests of this area are represented in the statewide discussion.
Sincerely,

Tiffany Cook
Ketchikan, Alaska

Received November 04, 2016 - Published November 05, 2016

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