JUNEAU – The Republican-led Senate majority has added another member: Democratic Sen. Donny Olson of Golovin.
The move leaves four Democrats in the minority.
In a release, Olson says he’s honored to join the majority and “lend a strong voice for rural Alaskans.”
Democratic Sen. Lyman Hoffman of Bethel is also part of the majority, which is otherwise comprised of Republicans.
Senate Minority Leader Berta Gardner, in a release, expressed disappointment with Olson’s departure but acknowledged “every legislator’s responsibility to make decisions which they feel are in the best interest of their district.”
Gardner says the majority will benefit from the influence of a member “with strong progressive values and interests,” including support for public education and Medicaid expansion.
A Senate majority spokeswoman says the move won’t impact minority membership on committees.
