Governor Walker Calls Joint Session

Governor Walker at news conference on Thursday. Image-State of Alaska

JUNEAU—Governor Walker Wednesday issued an executive proclamation to convene members of the House and Senate into a joint session at 10 a.m. on Friday to vote on the governor’s appointments for Commissioners, Boards and Commissions.

“I have assembled a team of respectable, hardworking Alaskans—many of whom have quit their jobs and relocated their families so they could serve the state,” Governor Walker said. “These dedicated team members deserve the opportunity to have their appointments put to a joint legislative session for a vote.”

More than two months ago, legislative leadership requested a legal opinion detailing the consequences of not meeting in joint session to vote on the governor’s appointments. That legal memo was made available to media earlier this week. Shortly thereafter, the House Speaker canceled the joint session for the confirmation vote, which was originally scheduled for Friday.

“I’m concerned by the February 16 memo, followed by the cancellation of the joint session,” Governor Walker said. “It leaves me little choice but to issue this proclamation to ensure that we fulfill our fiduciary obligation to Alaskans so government continues to function. The risk that these hardworking Alaskans will not have the opportunity of a confirmation vote is unacceptable.”

Governor Walker has forwarded the names of 89 Alaskans whose appointments need to be confirmed by the Legislature.