Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy on America’s Energy Future

EXCLUSIVE: Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy believes that Alaska can serve as a powerful catalyst for reviving America’s economy through energy dominance, job creation, and a reduction of government debt. In a recent interview with Fox News Digital during the National Governors Association and Republican Governors Association winter meetings, Dunleavy articulated his vision for how his state can play a pivotal role in national growth.

Forging Partnerships for Energy Independence

Governor Dunleavy expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with President Donald Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, emphasizing the crucial role of partnership in promoting energy independence. “Burgum’s experience in North Dakota, coupled with his commitment to Trump’s vision of responsible energy use, is exactly what we need,” he stated.

He elaborated on Trump’s overarching goal: a return to the original intention behind using federal lands—not solely for parks, but for the careful stewardship of natural resources. “What President Trump is doing is essential for addressing several systemic issues: debt, job creation, and excessive reliance on foreign countries,” Dunleavy remarked. “The solutions are already in Alaska; we just need to implement them.”

Investing in Infrastructure and Hydroelectric Power

In addition to energy independence, Dunleavy is keen on fortifying Alaska’s infrastructure. He aims to work with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on expanding hydroelectric projects in the Tongass National Forest—an initiative backed by the late Representative Don Young. Dunleavy reinforced that the U.S. Forest Service’s jurisdiction, rather than that of the Interior Department, indicates a broader potential for resource development.

“Just as the Department of Agriculture collaborates with farmers in the Lower 48 states, its foundational mission includes the effective utilization of forest resources,” he noted. One area Dunleavy has his eyes on is Ambler, located west of the Dalton Highway—known from the “Ice Road Truckers” series—where there exists a promising mineralization opportunity.

Federal Land and Resource Access Issues

The governor asserted that a 30-mile section of land between Ambler and the Dalton Highway crosses federal land. Citing the original legislation that ensures Alaska’s rights to access leasing, Dunleavy declared, “The law states we cannot be obstructed from accessing our leases through federal lands.” He anticipates that Trump’s administration will resume passage through these lands to fully exploit the region’s mineral wealth.

“There was absolutely no justification for halting access through federal lands, similar to the unreasonable delays of legally-executed oil and gas leasing aimed at fostering Alaskan energy development,” he stated.

The Path Forward: Energy Projects and ANWR

Governor Dunleavy is particularly optimistic about expanding Alaska’s gas pipeline infrastructure and exploring lease opportunities within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). He highlighted that native communities on the North Slope are supportive of responsible exploration within ANWR, recognizing the jobs and economic opportunities it can create. “Our gas lines will not only benefit Alaska but will also extend our reach to Asian allies and the broader Pacific region,” he pointed out.

Additionally, he advocates for harnessing what he referred to as the second-strongest ocean tides globally in Cook Inlet. “Cook Inlet’s tides could serve as a significant renewable energy source,” he remarked during a prior interview. “We must encourage investments in capturing this power, especially for producing green hydrogen, while firmly rejecting the false dichotomy between green energy and fossil fuel development.”

A Unified Approach to Energy Independence

Echoing Dunleavy’s sentiments, a White House spokesperson recently stated, “President Trump is fully committed to unleashing American energy and will collaborate with state officials to tap into our natural resources.” The spokesperson acknowledged that Dunleavy recognizes the potential for energy independence to stimulate economic growth.

As discussions about America’s energy future unfold, Governor Dunleavy remains focused on leveraging Alaska’s resources to not only enhance local communities but to also contribute to national energy security. His agenda aims to replace dependency with sovereignty, ensuring a self-sufficient and prosperous future for Alaska and the United States as a whole.