Senate Minority Reacts Favorably to Palin Address
Speech Outlines New Direction for Pipeline

JUNEAU – Members of the Senate Republican Minority responded positively to ideas outlined tonight by Governor Sarah Palin for getting Alaska’s gas to market.

“I’m very encouraged by what we heard tonight. It appears that Gov. Palin and her team are preparing legislation that encompasses a competitive process that will get the gas line project off high center,” said Senate Minority leader Gene Therriault, R-North Pole.

“The nation and Alaska desperately need Alaska’s gas. This delightful new gubernatorial team brings the right expertise, experience, drive and leadership skills to the project. How refreshing to see this open, clear thinking, inclusive approach. Alaskans have to be proud of having picked these leaders. The Senate Republican Caucus is pawing the ground and lunging in the harness, eager to help,” said Sen. Fred Dyson, R-Eagle River, who served last year on the Senate Special Committee on Natural Gas Development.

“I look forward to the introduction of legislation so I can roll up my sleeves and get into the details,” said Sen. Tom Wagoner, who last year served as Chairman of the Senate Resources Committee and was also a member of the Senate Special Committee on Natural Gas Development.