Interior Alaska News

The Wall Street Journal recently published an editorial focusing on former President Trump's executive order concerning Alaska. This order rescinds numerous executive orders and actions from the Biden administration that targeted Alaska, which were described as an "assault" on the state's economy. The order reinstates several policies from Trump's first term.

Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska expressed gratitude towards Trump for acknowledging Alaska's strategic importance to the nation. He emphasized that prioritizing the development of Alaska's energy and resources sends a significant message to Alaskans, the rest of the country, and globally.

The editorial board criticized Biden's approach, stating that he treated Alaska more harshly than Iran by imposing restrictions on economic activities such as drilling and roadbuilding. According to them, Biden's administration suspended lease sales in key areas like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and blocked oil and gas development in substantial parts of the National Petroleum Reserve.

Furthermore, Biden's policies included banning drilling in certain regions, canceling lease sales in Cook Inlet, enforcing a roadless rule on large forest areas, hindering mining projects, and denying land allotments to Alaska Native veterans. Senator Sullivan has identified 70 actions by Biden that negatively impacted Alaska's economy.

The editorial argues against progressive views of preserving Alaska as a natural museum. It suggests that resource development can coexist with environmental stewardship while highlighting that Alaskans have much at stake if their land is damaged. Trump's executive order aims to restore a policy balance that was disrupted during Biden’s tenure.