Political Quotes

“I thank both Chairman Simpson and Chairman Frelinghuysen for their work on this legislation, but I would like to engage in this colloquy about the Denali Commission in Alaska. My proposal would have restored funding for the Denali Commission to its fiscal year 2017 level to continue the great work that it does to support the constituents of the rural areas of Alaska. My proposal would also restore the 2017 funding levels for the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Delta Regional Authority, and the Northern Border Regional Commission. The Denali Commission started in 1998 with Senator Stevens as an independent Federal agency designed to provide critical utilities, infrastructure, and economic support throughout Alaska. With the creation of the Denali Commission, Congress acknowledged the need for increased interagency cooperation and a focus on Alaska's remote communities. The Denali Commission operates in the most geographically diverse and challenging area in America, twice the size of Texas. In fact, this area would encompass both the Delta Regional Authority and the Appalachian Regional Commission. I continue to believe the Denali Commission is a model of efficient and innovative government. The Commission has also improved the living conditions of rural areas of Alaska. Mr. Chairman, Mr. Simpson has done the best he can, and you cannot believe all the programs that the Denali Commission provides for the State of Alaska and my constituents.…”