Supports Dunleavy

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To the editor:

Over the past 20 years I have watched a lot of Alaskans come to serve in our Legislature. Most talk good and look good, but many are a disappointment when it comes to doing the job of being a public policy decision maker. Two years ago, you sent us an amazing person in Mike Dunleavy. His current chief of staff, John Wood, is an old respected friend who told me Mike would do a great job; I had no idea how right he was.

First, Mike is very discerning on the issues of our day. He quickly sees through fluff and smokescreen and grasps the core matters.

Second, he handles the discussions and debates in a logical and engaging way. No one wants to debate him who has seen him in action. He has a dry and delightful sense of humor that disarms his opponents and charms his listeners.

Third, he is very well read, holding fast to transcendent values and possessing a historical, “originalist” perspective on the nature of our Constitution which binds and limits any one generation from ruling according to the passion of the times.

Fourth, he is patient and thinks carefully about how to get the job done. Mike’s critical thinking and analytical skills are formidable, enabling him to help others see through the fog and craft sound strategies to complex problems. He knows how to get policy issues changed.

Fifth, he has a very impressive and valuable educational background as a teacher, principal and superintendent in rural Alaska. No one can match him on understanding school issues and few can equal his understanding of rural Alaska problems.

Sixth, while Mike’s size alone makes him impressive, his family and children demonstrate the true nature of Mike’s life and commitment to all we hold dear. We can all fool people for a while. You cannot fool your spouse and children. Mikes family is a powerful testimony for the character of this man.

Finally, Mike has values he won’t compromise and possesses extraordinary courage. I have seen him wade into the lion’s den when others were cowering behind their desks.

Please send him back, Alaska needs him. If you have any more like him, roust them out, comb their hair and send them to Juneau. People like Mike are an endangered species in our time.

Sen. Fred Dyson

Eagle River