By Dan Carothers
I recently read an opinion piece written in the Juneau Empire by Rich Moniak. My understanding of this opinion is an attempt to compare prior Gov. Bill Walker (positively), who is running for governor again, and Tuckerman Babcock (negatively), who is running for state Senate in Soldotna, Alaska.
First, in my opinion, Moniak has left out several very important events during Bill Walker’s period of governing this state that do not shed a positive reflection on his “know when to stand firm against the opposition,” as Moniak’s opinion piece stated. I’m not sure if he knows what Walker’s views really are. Walker initially ran as a Republician, the next time he formally merged with Democrats to try to get elected. Now, he is running as a self-styled ”independent.” To me this reflects a weak political platform, and a lack of knowing what the people in this state really need, or what direction to take this state, other than in the wrong direction.
Like, the passing of SB91, which weakened public safety for all Alaskans, caused many hardships for hundreds of people and was a primary cause of a crime wave throughout the state.
Like after he failed to convince the Legislature to expand Medicaid, Walker unilaterally by executive order did it which Alaska is still dealing with budget problems as a result.
Like spending millions of dollars attempting to sell Alaska’s natural gas to communist China. And failing to do so.
Like becoming the first governor to veto the Dividend, and tossed aside decades of PFD stability, a not well thought out decision that we are still struggling with today.
Like in 2018, Walker after the Democratic Party changed their rules to allow him to run in their primary, he challenged Mark Begich and then dodged and filed direct to the general election. That poor decision weakened the state Democratic Party.
In the end, Walker is remembered by many for to many poor decisions, that have effected to many Alaskans negatively. I agree with Moniak that “Knowing when to stand firm” is an important trait in a politician representing Alaskans, but I think he is not looking at the full picture of prior Governor Bill Walker and/or is out of touch with many Alaskans.
Finally, Babcock, for those who really know him he is a man of faith, family and has Alaskan citizens’ interests at heart. Everyone may not agree with all of his decisions, but it is difficult to disagree with the principles that he makes his decisions from. The true art of compromise, making progress together and knowing when, why, and how to negotiate requires starting from a position of principle.
Whether I agree with him or not , I would take Tuckerman Babcock over Bill Walker any day.
• Dan Carothers resides in Juneau. Columns, My Turns and Letters to the Editor represent the view of the author, not the view of the Juneau Empire. Have something to say? Here’s how to submit a My Turn or letter.
