Johnny Ellis Endorses Tom Begich

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From the Tom Begich For Alaska Campaign:

Today — Retiring State Senator Johnny Ellis announced his endorsement of long-time Downtown resident Tom Begich to run for open state senate seat J. Senator Johnny Ellis is not running for reelection.

“I’m proud of the work I’ve done for over 30 years for the less fortunate in my district and throughout Alaska. From making sure we honor our commitment to education and ensuring we have a smart and effective criminal justice system, to supporting the Key campaign and working for a bi-partisan coalition that will meet the needs of our state, I know that Tom Begich shares many of my values and the values of my neighbors,” Senator Ellis said. “I’ve known Tom for over thirty years as a colleague and a friend. Tom has lived, worked, and been active in this community all his life. He will be a great state senator. I’m happy to endorse Tom Begich.”

Begich has worked for decades to better our neighborhoods, our city, and our State. Working as a community organizer for the Partnership for a Healthy Community in the 90’s, Tom helped develop community-based action in Mountain View, Downtown, Spenard, and Muldoon. More recently Tom has championed education as the Government Affairs Director for the Coalition for Educational Equity and worked to combat youth substance abuse and bullying as Facilitator for Anchorage United for Youth, the Anchorage Collaborative Coalitions, and many other community groups.

“I’ve proven my commitment to my neighbors in Downtown, Airport Heights, South Addition, and Mountain View, and now I’m ready to take my passion to Juneau. Whoever replaces Senator Ellis needs to continue his legacy of service. I’m the most qualified candidate to do just that,” said Begich. “It is an honor and a privilege to be endorsed by a man who has committed his life to his district and constituents, and I intend to work to fill his very big shoes. The state is facing the most important crisis in its young future and we must make a commitment to fulfilling Alaska’s potential by investing in our education system, our infrastructure and our community. I will fight to ensure we do not slip back into the days of crony politics. Thank you, Senator Ellis, for your support and faith in my ability to serve the district and Alaskans in the State Senate. “