The Alaska Independent Democratic Coalition Hopes Presidential Visit Will Lead to Broader Understanding of Alaska, Its People, and Our Priorities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 2015
ANCHORAGE – The thirteen members of the Alaska Independent Democratic Coalition are excited to welcome President Barak Obama to Alaska this week. The President is scheduled to speak tonight at the GLACIER conference at the Dena’ina Center in Anchorage followed by trips to rural Alaska later this week. The GLACIER conference, which is focused on the Arctic, will include foreign dignitaries and experts on Arctic issues.
“This week’s Presidential visit will be a moment in Alaska’s history that will be remembered for many years to come,” said AIDC Leader Rep. Chris Tuck (D-Anchorage). “I am hopeful the visit will result in a broader understanding of the issues impacting Alaska and an improved relationship between Alaska and the federal government.”
During his visit President Obama is scheduled to travel to Dillingham, Seward, and Kotzebue to meet directly with Alaskans to discuss environmental issues, including climate change.
“The United States is an Arctic nation because of Alaska, and the Arctic is one of the places most in peril from environmental changes,” said Rep. Sam Kito (D-Juneau). “I applaud the President for his focus on the impacts that climate change will have on our people, communities, fish and wildlife, and way of life.”
President Obama’s visit to Alaska this week will be celebrated and closely watched by hundreds of thousands of Alaskans. However, the visit will include some restrictions on air, vehicle and pedestrian travel, especially in the downtown Anchorage area, beginning today.
“A Presidential visit, like the one we in Anchorage will be getting over the next few days, is a once in a lifetime experience and should be embraced,” said Anchorage resident Rep. Harriet Drummond (D-Anchorage). “Let’s all be patient with the minor travel inconveniences and enjoy the next few days. I’m sure that through this week’s visit President Obama will walk away with a better understanding of this beautiful state and our remarkable people.”
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