On August 14th the Editoral writers of the Daily News showed yet again what most Alaskans well understand; that they are more interested in the politics of personal destruction than a good public policy. This editorial gang-of-seven attacked a positive transportation policy decision by Senator Ted Stevens as just an effort to benefit me, which is absolutely untrue.

I've got a news flash for the Daily Neews: we now live in a world where if you twist the news to fit your political agenda, you're going to get called on it. Roads matter to Anchorage residents a lot more than the Daily News' political games.

Our efforts in the Legislature have been to correct flaws in AMATS and to allow more public input, more public understanding, and most importantly - to prioritize the utilization of the limited transportation dollars available. These priorities should mitigate the increased automobile traffic congestion within the boundaries of the Municipality of Anchorage, provide safe and adequate pedestrian facilities to and from our schools and downtown area, and provide recreational access.

Anchorage residents expect their public officials to be watching out for the common good; to understand the facts and the history behind the issues before casting judgement. Ted Stevens has done this through a distinguished career of public service and I was raised to do the same. The Daily News owes its readers the same high standard that I was taught, and which I try to live by. Yet again, they let their readers down.

Ben Stevens
President, Alaska State Senate

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