Independent Rep. Josiah Patkotak of Utqiaġvik was appointed speaker pro tempore of the Alaska House of Representatives.
The freshman lawmaker represents House District 40 which covers the Arctic region of the state. He was unanimously appointed on a 39-0 vote Speaker Pro Tempore of the House.
“I am humbled and honored to serve in this capacity during my first year in office, and I remain committed to the Bush Caucus as we work to achieve a permanent organization in the House. I thank God for this opportunity,” Representative Patkotak said.
This follows multiple failed attempts to appoint a Speaker Pro Tempore.
Nominations were opened for a permanent House Speaker, but nobody was nominated. The House stands in adjournment till Friday, February 5, 2021 at 10:00 AM.
Transcribed audio courtesy of KTOO 360TV.
