ALASKA – As Alaskans face skyrocketing gas and fuel prices, unaffordable flights, and shrinking access to critical services, Dan Sullivan is now standing by as a new DC budget proposal threatens to gut the Essential Air Service – all but eliminating a critical lifeline for rural Alaskans.

“While Alaskans are paying some of the highest prices in the nation for gas, food, and flights, Dan Sullivan has voted again and again to increase those costs and pull the rug on critical Alaska services,” said Alaska Democratic Party Chair Eric Croft. “He doesn’t stand up for Alaska in the U.S. Senate – he stands up for the special interests bankrolling his campaign and profiting from each service he cuts. Alaskans are taking note, and this November, we’ll replace Sullivan with someone who actually fights for our state.”

The proposed federal budget out of DC this morning would slash $372 million from the Essential Air Service’s (EAS) $514 million budget — a cut of more than 72% — devastating the program that serves more than 60 communities across Alaska with essential trips each year. For rural Alaskans, EAS isn’t a matter of convenience; it’s how people get to their doctor, receive medication, and put groceries on the table.

The same proposal cuts $1.6 billion from NOAA, threatening our already struggling fisheries and vital weather forecasting that keeps Alaska communities safe. 

None of this should come as a surprise. Dan Sullivan has repeatedly voted against more than $100 million in Essential Air Service funding. He has voted to cut Alaskans’ food assistance and healthcare. And now, Dan Sullivan’s DC is moving to sever the lifelines rural Alaskans rely on.