Following Rep. Don Young’s death, Alaskans and members of Congress are reflecting on his half-century political career. Despite the range of opinions, there is no denying that the effect of his work, his words, and his actions will continue to ripple across the state for many years to come.
Lori Townsend discusses Young’s legacy and the upcoming special election to replace him with Alaska Public Media Washington Correspondent Liz Ruskin.
Lori Townsend is the news director and senior host for Alaska Public Media. You can send her news tips and program ideas for Talk of Alaska and Alaska Insight at ltownsend@alaskapublic.org or call 907-550-8452.
Originally from the Central Coast of California, Valerie joined Alaska Public Media in July 2017. She creates original video content for the station's TV and digital platforms while also overseeing the Production Department. Before moving to Alaska, Valerie worked as an ENG Editor at WRAL-TV in Raleigh, North Carolina. She also served in the U.S. Air Force as a TV and Radio Broadcast Journalist where she traveled around Europe, Africa, The Baltics, Australia, and the Southern United States reporting on military events, exercises, and missions. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, backcountry skiing, backpacking, yoga, and traveling.
