Hollis French Speaks On Democratic Unity In Sitka

On May 8th I gave a speech on the topic in Sitka at the Alaska Democratic convention. You can watch it here.

Hollis French, Candidate for Governor, visits Sitka

I’m the first to acknowledge that unity is tough when you have three Democrats running for Governor. And by unity, I don’t mean we should agree all the time. We are all Alaskans, and we are capable of intelligent debate and disagreement, even with our closest friends.

But it is critical for us not to let our small differences threaten our ability to elect a Democratic Governor in November. I believe we must advance our vision for Alaska fearlessly. We should be smart enough to understand what the real choice in this election boils down to – government that works for Alaskans or government that is beholden to corporations.

And I haven’t found a better and more direct description of this choice than the following quote from Thomas Hart Benton, a Democrat from Missouri, who started his long career in the US Senate back in 1821.

Benton said: “There are but two parties, there never has been but two parties, founded in the radical question, whether People or Property shall govern. Democracy implies a government by the people. Aristocracy implies a government of the rich, and in these words are contained the sum of party distinction.”

I believe it is important to stand up for people over property. Last session, Coastal Zone Management legislation would have given local Alaskans a voice when development could impact the community they call home. It would have restarted a program which was highly successful until 2003, when it was gutted by Governor Frank Murkowski.

Governor Sean Parnell took the Murkowski position, the one backed by the oil industry. Senator Donny Olson (D-Golovin) and I took the governor to task and asked him to change his mind in the wake of the Gulf oil spill. Read about it here.

In August, a Democrat will be selected to advance our cause. I want to be that Democrat.  I’m running a positive campaign.  I’m optimistic about our chances.  I’m ready to work hard and win in November.

With your volunteer assistance, donation or support, this team will only become stronger.

We can get there!

Senator Hollis French