Murkowski delays run for Governor

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2001

Senator Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska) on Tuesday said he will delay a potential run for Governor of Alaska.

He is delaying a decision because he wants to focus on drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Up until the Democratic take-over of the Senate, Murkowski was the chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee and had introduced a bill to open up the refuge to development.

The new chairman, Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.) has his own bill that will not allow oil and gas drilling in ANWR.

Murkowski is also a member of the Indian Affiars Committee.

Alaska's current leader is Tony Knowles, a Democrat. His term ends in 2002.

Get the Story:
ANWR issues stall Murkowski decision (AP 8/8)

Relevant Links:
Gwich'in Steering Committee - http://www.alaska.net/~gwichin
Oil Issues in ANWR, US Fish and Wildlife - http://arctic.fws.gov/issues1.html
The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, US Fish and Wildlife Service - http://arctic.fws.gov
The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Pro-Development site - http://www.anwr.org