Desperate for Change
Dear Editor: All talking points for replacing Rep. Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins with Republican Sheila Finkenbinder rest on the supposition that by party affiliation she will become one of the “power brokers.” For me that would be another nail in the coffin of desperately needed change.
I think almost all would agree that the state and federal system of “power brokers” is not working, it’s broken – tied in seemingly un-tieable knots. Replacing Jonathan with another Republican “power broker” only tightens those knots. I desperately want to see more of the creative and co-operative spirit that Jonathan brings to the table. His legislative history gives us a clear picture of his non-partisan problem-solving ethics and skills. He is young with a potential great career ahead helping us choose the right path.
I personally like and respect Sheila, but know that she will have to toe the party line. I feel confident that Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins will represent my values un-encumbered by party affiliations.
Vern Culp, Sitka
Support of JKT
Dear Editor: I am writing to support and thank Rep. Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins for the work he has done in Sitka these last four years, and share an anecdote for the hard work and results, often behind the scenes, that he puts in every day on our community’s behalf.
First, it’s been well reported Rep. JKT’s effectiveness in securing financial support for public radio (not to mention ADF&G, the ferry system, and domestic violence shelters) these last two fiscal years. Even as the budget inevitably gets cut, working with his colleagues, JKT has successfully staved off proposed debilitating cuts that would’ve decimated service and, in some parts of Alaska, closed public radio stations.
Second, Rep. JKT’s relationships in Juneau and with Governor Walker and the governor’s office and commissioners are positive and he’s earned the respect of many. I was appointed to the public seat on the Alaska Commission on Public Broadcasting last year. Rep. JKT worked personally with me, on this appointment. Through JKT’s positive relationships with the governor’s office, he successfully advocated my appointment, which in turn gives me the opportunity to share the perspective of coastal Alaska on this important body and ensure a strong future for public media in Alaska.
This kind of work is not always visible, but JKT is constantly pushing in all the right directions, often subtly and behind the scenes, to make good things happen for Southeast Alaska.
I want to thank Rep. Kreiss-Tomkins for his tireless service and encourage you to vote for him on Tuesday, Nov. 8.
Lily Herwald, Sitka
