Cockrell replaces Amanda Price, who resigned in February. Price said she was forced out over disagreements with Dunleavy over personnel and policy.
Andrew Kitchenman
State Government Reporter, Alaska Public Media & KTOO
State government plays an outsized role in the life of Alaskans. As the state continues to go through the painful process of deciding what its priorities are, I bring Alaskans to the scene of a government in transition.
Alaska justices question Legislature’s ability to budget for schools, other items in future years
The questioning happened during oral arguments in a lawsuit between Gov. Mike Dunleavy on one side and the Legislative Council and school funding advocates on the other.
Federal rescue package complicates annual Alaska Permanent Fund dividend debate
Gov. Dunleavy has proposed putting PFDs in the state constitution, as part of an amendment that would outline rules for the overall annual draw from the fund.
Alaska House passes disaster extension, sends bill to Senate where narrower legislation could emerge
Bethel Democratic Rep. Tiffany Zulkosky noted that the statewide COVID-19 threat level remains high. And she said the effect of new, highly contagious variants of the coronavirus in the state is unknown.
Former Alaska House Speaker Gail Phillips dies
Former Gov. Parnell says she was a steady leader who set a respectful tone in the House.
Attorney General Taylor defends Gov. Dunleavy’s pandemic response in Senate confirmation hearing
Taylor said it may be appropriate for the Legislature to amend the Alaska Disaster Act based on the state’s experiences over the past year.