The political landscape of Alaska has been dramatically reshaped by Governor Dunleavy’s recent actions concerning public education funding, sparking a critical conversation among Alaskans. What began as a legislative effort to bolster the state’s schools has escalated into a contentious battle, exposing deep divisions and raising questions about political accountability and adherence to democratic processes. This unfolding saga highlights the challenges of legislative integrity when faced with executive maneuvering.
At the heart of this dispute is House Bill 57 (HB 57), a measure aimed at funding public education. Despite passing with significant bipartisan support in the state Legislature, Governor Dunleavy initially vetoed the bill. In a rare display of unity, the Legislature swiftly overrode this veto. However, the governor subsequently used his line-item veto power to strip the newly enacted law of its critical funding, effectively undermining the legislative will and the foundational support for public education funding that HB 57 intended to provide.
Following these actions, Governor Dunleavy called a special session of the 34th Legislature, a move strategically timed to coincide with many legislators’ pre-arranged absences, some even out of the country. This calculated timing was particularly evident in the case of Senator Forrest Dunbar, who, despite being on active military duty abroad, made considerable personal sacrifice to return home for the sole purpose of attending this crucial vote, highlighting the perceived manipulation of the legislative calendar.
Compounding this strategic timing, the governor publicly instructed Republican members of the Legislature not to attend the very session he had just convened. This unprecedented directive, viewed by many as an attempt to exploit absences and circumvent the quorum necessary for legislative action, directly challenges the constitutional roles and responsibilities of elected officials. Legislators, by design, serve their constituents, not the executive, and their duty is to attend sessions and participate in governance.
Furthermore, the governor has attempted to propagate the narrative that no substantive work was accomplished regarding education funding prior to his special session call. This assertion starkly contrasts with public records and statements from legislative leaders, including House Minority Leader Mia Costello, who affirmed the extensive bipartisan efforts and compromises made during the regular session to craft a widely supported bill. His absence from key hearings and education committee meetings throughout the regular session complicates his current claim of readiness to engage.
The governor’s behavior, particularly calling a special session only to discourage attendance, is seen by many as a cynical maneuver designed to exploit procedural loopholes. Such tactics not only undermine the spirit of the law but also demonstrate a willingness to circumvent established democratic norms. This approach raises significant concerns about political accountability and whether the best interests of the Alaskan citizenry are truly being served when legislative integrity is seemingly disregarded.
Statements from the governor and some of his allies, such as Rep. Kevin McCabe, questioning who is responsible for public schools if not the Legislature, appear disingenuous given the clear actions taken. The legislative body, by passing HB 57 with a three-fourths majority—twice—resoundingly affirmed its commitment and responsibility to public education. The continued attempts to negate this lawfully passed legislation are a disservice to the democratic process and the citizens of Alaska.
