Former Gov. Sarah Palin is using her new online news channel to promote the repeal of Alaska’s current oil tax system.
In a rambling 18 minute video posted on the site, Palin says Alaskans should vote yes on Ballot Measure 1 at this month’s primary election. The measure would roll back the SB 21 tax regime passed by the legislature in 2013, and return to the system Palin championed while in office − Alaska’s Clear and Equitable Share, or ACES.
SB 21 did away with the progressive tax feature of ACES, where the tax rate increased with rising oil prices. In the video, Palin makes several references to “crony capitalism” and ethics as reasons to vote for SB 21’s repeal.
“SB 21 landed us a one-way giveaway to big oil without any guarantees or concessions to protect the people’s longterm interests,” Palin says.
Supporters of the current tax system say it has increased oil exploration and development, as well as jobs.
Palin launched her online channel this week. The primary election is August 19.