The Wasilla Republican who left the Alaska Senate’s majority caucus over concerns that not enough was being done to curb state spending still could play a role in how the budget ultimately looks.
Sen. Mike Dunleavy’s departure from the Republican-led caucus left it with 14 members.
That could become an issue if the constitutional budget reserve is needed to help cover state expenses. Such a move requires support of at least 15 of the Senate’s 20 members.
Dunleavy voted with the majority to tap the reserve during an initial vote earlier this month. He says he honored a commitment he’d made to the caucus.
Now, he says it’s a “different ballgame” and that his constituents will be foremost in his decision-making.
House and Senate negotiators will craft a final budget.