Nelson, St. Clair sworn in as newest members of Alaska House

By SUZANNE DOWNING

Garret Nelson of Sutton and Steve St. Clair of Wasilla were sworn in Tuesday as the newest members of the Alaska House of Representatives, filling vacancies created earlier this winter.

House Republicans confirmed the two lawmakers following their Christmas Eve appointments by Gov. Mike Dunleavy. The oath of office was administered by House Speaker Bryce Edgmon at the Legislative Information Office in Anchorage.

St. Clair was appointed to represent House District 26. He said he intends to continue the conservative legacy of the district.

“I am humbled and honored to have been nominated, appointed and confirmed to represent House District 26,” St. Clair said. “I will continue to build upon the conservative values that have been established by my predecessor. District 26 has always stood for doing what is right. I will continue in that legacy and represent the people.”

St. Clair brings extensive military and legislative experience to the House Republican Caucus, adding a sixth military veteran to the group. He previously staffed the office of former Rep. Cathy Tilton. The 54-year-old is a retired Military Police First Sergeant, holds a master’s degree in business administration, and has a record of advocating for reduced state spending. He is married and has two children.

Nelson was sworn in to represent House District 29. A lifelong Valley resident, Nelson said his focus will be on fiscal discipline and resource development.

“I am honored to represent the hard-working people of District 29,” Nelson said. “I look forward to being part of a team that will champion resource development and long-term fiscal responsibility. Alaskans have the resources and attitude to lay a foundation for generations upon generations of prosperity, and I am thankful for the opportunity to play a part in that.”

Nelson, 41, is married and the father of nine. He serves as chairman of the Sutton Community Council and has worked as a cattleman, union pipe welder, sole proprietor, and salesman.

“I am prepared to support the hard decisions required to bring our fiscal house in order,” Nelson said.

House Minority Leader Rep. DeLena Johnson, R-Palmer, attended the ceremony and welcomed the two new members.

“I am very pleased that our new members have business experience and have a finance background,” Johnson said. “This knowledge will be integral to establishing a fiscal plan and creating a balanced, sustainable budget during this upcoming session. I congratulate our new Valley members and warmly welcome them to the Alaska House of Representatives.”

The 34th Alaska Legislature is scheduled to convene for its five-month regular session on Jan. 20.