I have to join the chorus of accolades for Congressman Don Young. Publicly, he could be a pretty gruff character, but there was just as sincerely a warm side to him as well.
I really have a lot of respect for his experience and the savvy he gained from decades of service to Alaska. As a person very worried about climate change and its effects on Alaska, I’ve been lucky to get to talk to Congressman Young as a concerned Alaskan. Don Young was always very gracious in our meetings with him both in DC and in Anchorage. And, though you had to listen carefully for it, he was always willing to share advice.
Congressman Young served long enough to remember the days when, as a matter of course, parties worked together, and members from each party regularly crafted legislation together. We got to see that historical breadth in his call to all members of Congress to back the bipartisan infrastructure bill this fall. Those long years of legislating helped him realize how rare and vital an opportunity that kind of funding is for Alaska and the country. This is wisdom that shouldn’t be lost with his passing, and we would do well to remember that tradition.
Though many people may view him as very partisan, his record doesn’t reflect that. His instinct to advocate for Alaska was stronger than a narrow partisan view, and he regularly worked respectfully with some of the most liberal members of Congress on issues that really matter to Alaska.
After he and his wife, Anne, were married, she was always by his side in our meetings. The care and affection they shared was always present. To his daughters and Anne, I offer my sincere condolences.
George Donart
Citizens’ Climate Lobby
Anchorage
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