FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 09/05/2023
ANCHORAGE — The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) released two nearly identical television ads today attempting to discredit Mark Begich’s two successful terms as the mayor of Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage. The ads are another attempt by Outside groups to buy Alaska’s senate seat for Dan Sullivan, who is currently facing an investigation of his residency in Maryland.
“Mark Begich is born and raised in Anchorage and he’s proud of his record of delivering for his hometown. This is another flood of attacks from Outside groups that want to buy power in Washington without listening to the needs of Alaskans. It’s clear Outside groups are set on talking on Dan Sullivan’s behalf because he won’t look Alaskans in the eye,” said Max Croes, Communications Director for Alaskans for Begich.
Alaska’s largest newspaper, the Anchorage Daily News (now Alaska Dispatch News), reported on Mark Begich’s tenure as Anchorage’s mayor:
Anchorage Daily News Editorial: “Our view: Fine job, Mr. Mayor.” [Editorial, Anchorage Daily News, 1/3/09]
Anchorage Daily News: “Anchorage maintains its high rating on short-term bonds.”[Anchorage Daily News, 2/8/10]
Anchorage Daily News Ad Analysis Confirmed City Of Anchorage Added More Than 9,000 Jobs During Begich’s Tenure As Mayor. [Anchorage Daily News, 8/17/08]
Anchorage Daily News 2008: For First Time In 10 Years, Taxes Paid By Average Anchorage Homeowner Dropped By 3%. [Anchorage Daily News, 3/30/08]
The Anchorage Daily News editorialized on Begich’s tenure in 2008:
“He proved to be a highly competent mayor, one of the city’s best. He made the city run well, from ensuring its finances are sound to making sure the sidewalks were plowed. Begich used the office to improve the quality of our lives in many ways — staffing up the police department, for example, and making downtown more attractive…When Begich came into office, the city faced a $33 million shortfall. He cut expenses, partly by winning concessions from city unions. He went after additional revenue sources, from collecting on delinquent fines, to increasing fees for such services as building permits…When Begich came into office, the city faced a $33 million shortfall. He cut expenses, partly by winning concessions from city unions. He went after additional revenue sources, from collecting on delinquent fines, to increasing fees for such services as building permits…Begich was a highly competent mayor, and his successor will take over a city that is in excellent shape. BOTTOM LINE: Mayor Begich could be a tough act to follow.”
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