U.S. Senate candidate Mark Begich: “It’s Time to Move On”

U.S. Senate candidate Mark Begich: “It’s Time to Move On”

Related: 20081230 An interview with Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich

10.28.08

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8ZkJ-GNGRw



Comments on Stevens’ trial, Alaska’s future

U.S. Senate candidate Mark Begich said today that the jury has spoken, Senator Ted Stevens broke the law, and it’s time to move on. At a news conference in Anchorage, Begich said despite Stevens’ conviction on seven felony counts, Alaskans are resilient and will be able to move forward to address the critical challenges that face the state.

“The charges against Senator Stevens were serious and the conviction sends a strong message that no man is above the law,” Begich said. “Washington D.C. is broken and too many lawmakers are serving the special interests and not the people back home.”

Begich said while Stevens says he will appeal the federal jury’s verdict, Alaska’s issues are too important to have to wait for months or even years of legal maneuvering. Senator Stevens did a lot for our state, but that era is over, he added.

“We now have an opportunity to put this unfortunate chapter of our history behind us and focus on the future of Alaska,” Begich said. “This election gives Alaskans the opportunity to choose a different style of leadership, a different approach to addressing the important issues facing our state.”

Begich summarized his six-month campaign for reporters, pointing out he has released more than a dozen plans to deal with issues such as energy, ethics, health care and education. Begich said with the critical challenges facing the country, Alaska needs somebody with an independent style in Washington, working across party lines to solve the problems we’re facing.

“I love Alaska. This is my home. Every day I am in the U.S. Senate I will remember that and stand up for the issues that are important to us.”

Since announcing his candidacy in late April, Begich has received the endorsement of the Alaska State Employees Association/American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 52; the National Education Association – Alaska and the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education; Retired General Wesley Clark; the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) and the American Postal Workers Union (APWU).

http://begich.com/content/begich-it-s-time-move

20081028 US Senate candidate Mark Begich Its Time to Move On