Senate Republicans approve Shower to replace Dunleavy

JUNEAU — Senate Republicans today confirmed Mike “Dozer” Shower to represent District E in the Alaska Senate. Shower was nominated by Gov. Bill Walker Tuesday and was among the additional nominees submitted by Republicans in the district.

“The Senate will soon be made whole again with the addition of Mr. Shower,” said Senate President Pete Kelly (R-Fairbanks). “Alaska is home to more military veterans per capita than any state in the Union, and we hope Mr. Shower brings that culture of service to the Legislature as he works on behalf of the people of District E.”

Mr. Shower served in the U.S. Air Force for two decades as a pilot where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and commanded the first squadron of F-22s at Elmendorf Air Force Base. As Squadron Commander, he led the first successful F-22 intercept of a Russian aircraft in 2007.

“The Senate stood tough for the people of District E and we appreciate that Mr. Shower was chosen through the traditional process,” said Senate Majority Leader Peter Micciche (R-Soldotna). “His military service to this country is exemplary, making him well suited for today’s tough decisions. We’re looking forward to working with Mr. Shower to address the problems that face Alaskans.”

In 2010, Shower retired from the Air Force and currently flies for FedEx.

MShower holds a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy and a Master of Business Administration from Touro University.

Shower was the third selection sent to Senate Republicans by Walker, who initially chose Mat-Su Borough Assembly Member Randall Kowalke. Republicans rejected that because Kowalke wasn’t on their list of three selected by the Mat-Su selection committee. So, Walker then chose Tom Braund, of Sutton, who was one of the three, but controversial social media posts by Braund preceded his resignation.

Walker then chose Shower, who wasn’t on the original list of candidates, but was on a later list submitted by Republicans.