The leading Democratic contenders for the White House are weighing in on Alaska politics and the ferry strike — at least, on social media.
I stand in solidarity with the people of Anchorage, Alaska who are fighting to make their voices heard against extreme budget cuts that could hurt the people of their state. https://t.co/wH7rxCWzg2
— Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) July 30, 2019
Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren tweeted her thoughts on the state’s ongoing political feud on Tuesday. Warren linked to an Alaska Public Media story about Anchorage declaring a civil emergency, and called Governor Mike Dunleavy’s budget cuts “extreme.”
On Monday, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders chimed in on the ferry labor dispute, tweeting “I stand with the IBU” and urging Dunleavy to “bargain in good faith” with the striking ferry workers.
The IBU just voted to strike for the first time in 42 years. They are striking for better working conditions and fully-funded ferry service for the community. I stand with the IBU in this and urge @GovDunleavy to bargain in good faith with these workers. https://t.co/IWgcMMJdKK
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) July 29, 2019
And late last week, former Vice President Joe Biden also tweeted his support for the ferry workers on strike, calling the funding cuts to the Alaska Marine Highway System “draconian.”
The top-polling Democratic candidate for President then called on Governor Dunleavy to “restore full funding immediately.”
The marine transit system in Alaska is vital to rural communities—but faces draconian cuts in funding. IBU is on strike to ensure this lifeline for Alaskans will continue to serve communities from Ketchikan to Kodiak. The governor must restore full funding immediately. @ILWU
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 26, 2019
Current Republican President and frequent tweeter Donald Trump has not yet weighed in on Governor Dunleavy’s recent policy choices. But in the past, Dunleavy has received Trump’s enthusiastic support — both in person, and on social media.
