Valley senator defends legislative accomplishments, record

Spectrum, by Sen. Lyda Green

"A politician thinks of the next election -- a statesman of the next generation." -- James Freeman Clarke

In a healthy democracy, candidates of differing opinions share their values and principles. Unfortunately, as we all know from watching television, reading the newspaper and by what we are receiving in our mailboxes, campaigns are rife with negativism and distortions of the facts.

So it came as no surprise when reading the paper the other day to see my opponent's inaccurate statements about my public service record. My opponent complains that I have not worked to fund education, roads and public safety. That is over the top.

Last session, I successfully worked for an $82-million increase for education -- the largest one-year increase in state history. In addition, I successfully worked for new roads, troopers and prosecutors for the Valley -- all while reducing overall state spending.

On the longevity bonus: I voted twice for the longevity bonus in addition to supporting SeniorCare -- a senior prescription drug assistance program -- and worked for funding to upgrade the Palmer veteran and pioneer home.

I am the Republican candidate, my opponent is the Democrat. Rather than attack my opponent for refusing to answer the NRA questionnaire or even respond to the Alaska Outdoor Council and for her liberal agenda, I will continue to share with you my record, values and principles. No new income tax. No new sales tax. No attack on the PFD.

One simply has to look out the window in the Valley to see what I have been able to accomplish as your Valley senator. We now have major road construction and improvements to the Hatcher Pass recreation area, Port MacKenzie and planning for the Palmer state corrections facility that will bring new jobs to the Valley. As co-chair of the Senate Finance Committee, I am working to ensure that the Valley receives its fair share of state dollars. And this is a very healthy share.

Lights on the Glenn Highway at the Palmer hay flats

Substantial road projects (road construction, paving, expansion and maintenance)

New traffic lights to access new businesses

New schools' construction

Two new district court judges, with support staff

A mental health court

A veterans and pioneer home that will allow veterans to use their benefits and keep our Pioneers' Home fully occupied and sustainable

Increased education funding

Expanded the role of the Office of Victims' Rights

In addition to appropriating money for the benefit of Valley residents, I have sought out new ways to reduce government waste, promote fiscal responsibility and protect residents.

Sponsored and passed Medicaid fraud legislation

Voted in favor of a constitutional spending limit

Protected the PFD

Sponsored and passed legislation to bring children housed in out-of-state juvenile psychiatric centers back to Alaska for treatment

Correctional facility expansion

Sponsored changes to the high school exit exam to protect children with disabilities.

Conducted audits of Village Safe Water and other programs

Passed legislation requiring a 72-hour notice of teacher strike

Passed control of nuisance wild animals legislation to promote trapping and public safety

As election day draws nearer, negative attacks by my liberal opponent will no doubt be on the rise. By my record as a conservative Republican, I have earned the support of the NRA, the Alaska Outdoor Council and Alaska Right to Life.

I am proud of my record, proud of the people I represent and honored to serve the Valley. I am always available. If you have any questions, ideas or concerns, please contact me at 376-4654.

Lyda Green represents Senate District G in the Alaska State Legislature.