Alaska Governor Calls on Trump to Lift Oil and Gas Drilling Restrictions
Governor Mike Dunleavy stated that Alaska’s resources will play a pivotal role in the economic rejuvenation and national security of the United States.
The Governor of Alaska, Mike Dunleavy, has urged President-elect Donald Trump to lift restrictions on oil and gas exploration throughout the state in January 2025, emphasizing that Alaska is prepared to collaborate with Trump to set the nation and the state “on a path to prosperity.”
The governor’s office publicly released the letter on December 16.
Dunleavy congratulated Trump on his “historic victory” and commended him for “recognizing Alaska’s potential like no other President before” during his first term, which began in January 2017.
He called on Trump to issue an executive order on his inaugural day to initiate crucial measures that would “restore opportunity” to Alaska.
These essential measures entail reversing a series of policies enacted by the Biden administration and instructing federal agencies to restore actions and processes that were in place during Trump’s former administration.
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These actions would encompass granting rights for commercial leasing, exploration, development, and oil and gas production in the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, along with permitting responsible energy leasing across 18.6 million acres in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska.
Additionally, it aims to restore Alaska’s authority to manage its fish and game, revive the right of way to the Ambler Mining District—which is rich in critical mineral resources—and eliminate restrictions on logging and road construction in a temperate rainforest, among other initiatives.
Alaska ‘Targeted’ by Federal Government, Dunleavy Claims
Dunleavy also requested Trump to establish a Cabinet-level task force to ensure collaboration between the Interior Department, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other federal entities on Trump’s policies tailored to Alaska.
“Alaska’s vast energy and mineral resources are poised to enhance America’s economic resurgence and bolster national security,” stated Dunleavy. “Your victory heralds a new era of hope and possibility, and Alaska is enthusiastic about the opportunity to collaborate with you in reversing the damages caused by the preceding administration, positioning both Alaska and America towards prosperity.”
Alaska has historically resisted what it perceives as federal overreach, particularly related to decisions that impede the exploitation of the state’s extensive resource wealth.
Since taking office, President Biden has rendered significant portions of the state off-limits to oil, gas, and critical mineral projects, while also prohibiting infrastructure development as part of his strategy to mitigate carbon emissions and protect natural habitats.
In his correspondence to Trump, Dunleavy highlighted that the federal government has “targeted” Alaska with 60 executive orders and agency directives over the past four years, actions he believes have eroded the state’s authority, restricted access to public lands, obstructed forthcoming energy and mineral developments, and curtailed economic opportunities.
“As Governor of the Great State of Alaska, I eagerly anticipate working alongside you, Mr. President, on all of your initiatives aimed at revitalizing both Alaska and America,” he expressed. “We Alaskans stand behind your efforts to steer this country back on course.”
The Epoch Times has reached out to the White House for a response.
