Bush Caucus Welcomes Six New Members

(Juneau) - Representative Reggie Joule, D-Kotzebue, is pleased today to announce that six members of the Alaska State House have joined the Bush Caucus.

Our primary focus is on addressing the challenges and opportunities faced by rural Alaska. Adding the rural statewide perspective my colleagues bring to the table is important and timely, and an excellent chance to share our ideas across many viewpoints.
~ Rep. Reggie Joule

Representatives joining the caucus are:

• John Harris, R-Valdez, former Speaker of the House and current Joint Legislative Council Chairman
• Kyle Johansen, R-Ketchikan, current House Majority Leader
• Beth Kerttula, D-Juneau, current House Minority Leader
• Peggy Wilson, R-Wrangell, current House Transportation Committee Chairwoman
• Alan Austerman, R-Kodiak, current House Finance Committee member
• Cathy Muñoz, R-Juneau, current House Community & Regional Affairs Co-Chairwoman

"I am glad so many members of our chamber have accepted our invitation to join us for the 26th Legislature," Joule, the caucus chairman, said. "Our primary focus is on addressing the challenges and opportunities faced by rural Alaska. Adding the rural statewide perspective my colleagues bring to the table is important and timely, and an excellent chance to share our ideas across many viewpoints.

"Tempering the high cost of energy in rural Alaska and ensuring the economic well-being of our communities are top priorities for the caucus this session," Joule added.

The caucus is sponsoring a forum for the Alaska Federation of Natives, First Alaskans Institute, and the Alaska Native Heritage Center to jointly make an informal presentation to the Legislature on Feb. 3 at noon in the House Finance Committee room. In mid-February the caucus will also sponsor a forum with the Alaska Native Health Board.