Senator Jesse Bjorkman, representative of District D, discusses what he foresees for 2025.
With a new session approaching, a new year, and all kinds of changes that might be happening nationally, Bjorkman looks forward to building on the accomplishments he achieved in the state legislature.
He is working to ensure that the state government is focused on constitutional mandates, which include schools, public safety, and improving road operations and maintenance.
Additionally, jobs will be opening up for contractors who want certainty about job availability for the upcoming year. They will be able to access projects for the safety of residents and visitors as they pertain to the local economy.
Bjorkman also predicts that education will be a big issue this year.
“Securing stable funding that districts can rely on to provide educational opportunities for all kids is really important,” Bjorkman says.
Many Alaskans anticipate the shackles being removed from Alaska federally and the transitioning of national efforts to minerals and oil and gas drilling. Bjorkman states the legislature will be in sync with the two.
“You’re going to see a a state really that is looking forward to developing our natural resources for the maximum benefit of all Alaskans and making sure that those programs have the opportunities and permits that they need in order to move forward.”
Bjorkman is eager to see the projects, schedules, and other big announcements coming soon from oil and gas companies such as Conoco and Santos.
All those things going forwards, he is excited to see more expansion and exploration happening in the oil and gas industry as well as other resources around the state.
Bjorkman’s perspective is hopeful heading into 2025; however he says, “We’re going to have some challenges, but I think it’s more good than bad.”