By Suzanne Downing 
The Republican leaders of Alaska House Districts 26 and 29 issued a joint statement Saturday following the Senate’s confirmation of former House members Cathy Tilton and George Rauscher to open seats in the Alaska Senate.
Tilton will now represent Senate District M, while Rauscher will serve Senate District O. Both bring years of legislative experience from their time in the State House and have deep support in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
Their confirmations leave two vacancies in the Alaska House, prompting the district organizations to immediately begin the process of selecting nominees to send to Gov. Mike Dunleavy. District 29 will meet at 1 pm on Dec. 7 at the Best Western Lake Lucille Inn in Wasilla to vet candidates, followed by District 26 at 4 pm at the same location. After interviews and deliberations, each district will forward a slate of names to the governor for appointment.
District Chairs for both Republican organizations said they expect the governor to move quickly, noting his prompt action in filling earlier legislative vacancies this year.
In their joint statement, the district leaders urged House Republican minority to hold off on any reorganization or committee assignments until the two Mat-Su seats are filled, warning that proceeding without full representation would shut their constituents out of decisions that could shape the coming legislative session.
They emphasized that there is ample time before lawmakers convene in January and asked fellow Republicans to ensure that residents of Districts 26 and 29 have a voice in caucus decisions that will carry major consequences for the region and the state.
“We appreciate your understanding and consideration of our request,” the chairs wrote, politely requesting representation for their districts as the Legislature heads into a pivotal year.
The House minority Republicans need to pick a minority leader and whip, as well as assign committee representation to their members.
Tilton and Rauscher confirmed to Alaska Senate by Republican Caucus