ALASKANS FOR DON YOUNG, INC

2504 Fairbanks Street
Anchorage, AK 99503

November 18, 2008

Contact: Michael Anderson 907-382-9177

Statement from Alaska Congressman Don Young

Washington, D.C. - The following is a statement from Alaska Congressman Don Young regarding today's concession by Democratic candidate Ethan Berkowitz. Young was re-elected to a 19th term in Congress which will begin in January 2009.

“I am humbled and grateful to the people of Alaska for their show of support in this election year - both in the primary and the general elections. I am even more committed to this important position and will work to serve Alaskans in every region of our State.

"Mr. Berkowitz called tonight to concede the race and was very gracious. I congratulated him for being an excellent candidate and for running a strong campaign. He and his team showed a lot of class throughout this campaign as we focused on what was important to Alaska and Alaskans. No doubt, Ethan has a very bright future ahead of him.

Upcoming Congressional Session

“Alaskans have blessed my wife Lu and I with a 19th term of service to Alaska. I will use this seniority Alaskans have given me on the Natural Resources Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and I will work hard in the 111th Congress.

"I intend to work closely with Gov. Palin and Alaska's Congressional Delegation on an agenda to address the needs of Alaskans in every region of our State. Of course, nationally, we have serious issues to resolve.

“America's economy is in a perilous position. We must work in a bipartisan effort to address the major problems. At the same time, we must protect the American taxpayer throughout every step of the process and not just throw taxpayer dollars at poorly managed industries.

“We must immediately address our staggering energy crisis and work to stop the exporting of $700 billion to foreign nations each year. Alaska can play a major role in this vital effort. This year I secured over 180 cosponsors for my ANWR legislation that would allow for the production of ANWR's 10.4 billion barrels of oil to decrease our dependence on foreign sources. I will immediately reintroduce this bill that includes provisions to use federal lease money to fund renewable and alternative energy programs.

“Congress will also be working on the new national highway bill that will fund transportation projects for a six-year period. I will work to see that important Alaska road, highway, bridge and transit projects receive as much funding as possible to address our infrastructure needs and create new jobs throughout our State.