Palin selection hailed by Alaska politicians

For the Frontiersman

PALMER — Gov. Sarah Palin’s selection as U.S. Sen. John McCain’s vice presidential running mate took Alaska’s politicians by surprise Friday, but they lost little time before applauding the selection.

From the congressional delegation to local officials, the reaction from politicians contacted by the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman after the Alaska state coin ceremony was overwhelmingly positive.

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski issued a statement Friday morning praising the choice, calling it a “bold step.”

“Governor Palin is smart, energetic and her choice as the Republican vice presidential candidate represents a new direction in the race for the White House,” the release reads.

At the Alaska State Fair Friday afternoon for the state coin ceremony, Murkowski added she’s sure Palin is up for the job.

While much is being made of Palin’s lack of international experience, Murkowski pointed out as an Arctic state, Alaska has a unique role in dealing with its international neighbors.

“She has that to add to the mix,” Murkowski said.

Murkowski also touted Palin’s experience dealing with energy issues and said she expects Palin to be worthy of the confidence shown her by McCain.

“She’s not been afraid of much,” she said, adding Palin’s confident speech on Friday shows some of that mettle. “I think she showed a high level of confidence that spoke well of how she will represent herself on the campaign.”

Murkowski, who had not spoken to the governor since the announcement, said it will be a tough fight for the job. She would advise Palin to keep herself centered on her family.

“Take a deep breath and focus on what you have in front of you,” the second-term congresswoman said.

Murkowski said she looks forward to Alaska basking in the limelight that will surround Palin.

“It benefits us,” she said.

Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell, who filled in for Palin at the coin ceremony, said the news about his boss is “wonderful for Alaska.”

“We needed our reputation restored and this is the shortest route possible,” Parnell said. “She embodies Alaska. When she gets out and talks … it’s Alaska’s story.

“It’s all good for Alaska,” Parnell added. “It’s the story that has not been told. Finally, we’re getting noticed.”

State Rep. Carl Gatto, R-Palmer, called it a “great day for Alaska.”

Gatt o hailed the governor’s extraordinary leadership in the successes of ethics reform, AGIA, ACES and the gas pipeline in less than two years. He also said he expects the GOP’s first female VP candidate to bring in the Hillary Clinton voters.

“Now they have someone talking to them.” Gatto said. “This makes the difference.”

His colleague, state Rep. John Coghill, R-North Pole, agreed adding Palin to the ticket was a bold move that will reap benefits for the GOP and Alaska.

“This will really round the ticket out,” Coghill said. “The question now is will he [McCain] listen to her.”

Coghill grinned. “Sarah’s pretty hard not to listen to”

Coghill said he didn’t think the “troopergate” flap would put a damper on the historic announcement, and looks forward to having Alaska seen in a positive light.

“She gets a chance to put a better face on Alaska,” he said. “I will be praying for her.”

Longtime Valley politico and businesswoman Janet Kincaid said she was going to dig her Sarah Palin election signs out of storage and put them on her fence posts when she got home from the fair.

“It’s exciting. It’s wonderful. It’s America,” Kincaid gushed. “Anybody can become president. It’s just exciting. It’s flat-out exciting.

“I’m just jazzed.”

While Palmer Mayor John Combs’ reaction was more measured when he was waylaid near the fair’s midway, he said he supports Palin’s ground-breaking endeavors.

“I’m a little greedy in that I want to keep her here as governor,” Combs admitted. “I wish her the best in wherever she feels she will be most effective. She can count on my support.”

U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens issued a statement applauding McCain’s selection of Palin. Stevens praised Palin as attentive to her job and family, for bringing people together and making tough decisions.

“Governor Palin’s knowledge of energy issues will be critical as she and Senator McCain begin their path toward the White House,” the Stevens release reads. “It is now clear: there is only one presidential ticket, McCain-Palin, that can and will deliver a comprehensive energy plan — one that will include development of Alaska’s resources and reducing our dependence on foreign oil.”

Congressman Don Young also posted a statement on his election Web site congratulating the governor.

“Alaska has always had the potential to advance our nation’s interest — particularly in achieving energy independence,” the release states. “Having our own Governor Palin on the national ticket will bring serious emphasis to our capability to contribute to our nation.”

U.S. Senate candidate and Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich released a statement calling McCain’s choice of vice president a reason to be proud.