‘Honored to show up’ for Begich

To the editor:

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the U.S. Senate Candidate Youth Vote Forum. It is great that candidates were willing to give up some of their valuable time in order to talk to Anchorage’s students about issues ranging from reducing student loan debt to same-sex marriage.

There was, however, one problem: Dan Sullivan decided not to show up, skipping the debate for a fundraiser. Even the gubernatorial candidates — in Fairbanks for a previously scheduled debate — sent in video responses to some of the questions, but nothing from Sullivan. This is just one example of an obvious trend in this election. Sen. Mark Begich is clearly willing to talk to anyone about anything, especially valuing discussions with students, who are the future of this state. Sullivan seems to only value appearing at fundraisers or in front of favorable crowds, but not talking to all Alaskans.

Senator Begich ended the forum by saying, “I would be honored to have your vote on Election Day.” Since he showed up for me, I will be honored to show up on Nov. 4 to cast my very first ballot for him.

Austin Bailly

Anchorage