Frank Murkowski
Frank Murkowski
#### A Life of Public Service
As a former Governor of Alaska and U.S. Senator from the state, Frank Murkowski has spent his career advocating for the interests of Alaskans and shaping the course of American politics.
Full Name and Common Aliases
Frank Henry Murkowski was born on March 20, 1933, in Seattle, Washington. He is commonly known as Frank Murkowski or simply Senator Murkowski during his time in public office.
Birth and Death Dates
March 20, 1933 - Present
Nationality and Profession(s)
Murkowski is an American politician who has served in various roles throughout his career, including Governor of Alaska from 2002 to 2006, U.S. Senator from Alaska from 1981 to 2002, and Lieutenant Governor of Alaska from 1974 to 1975.
Early Life and Background
Raised in Seattle, Washington, Murkowski developed an early interest in politics due to his family's involvement in the field. His father, E.R. "Bob" Murkowski, was a prominent figure in Alaskan politics and played a key role in the state's transition from a territory to a state.
Frank attended the University of the Pacific before transferring to Seattle University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1955. He later received his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Washington School of Law in 1962.
Major Accomplishments
Murkowski's tenure as Governor of Alaska was marked by significant accomplishments, including:
Signing the Alaska Gasline Project Act into law, which aimed to develop a natural gas pipeline across Alaska
Taking steps to address the state's fiscal crisis and balance its budget
Supporting efforts to protect Alaska's natural resources and preserve its wilderness areasNotable Works or Actions
Throughout his career, Murkowski has been an advocate for various causes, including:
Conservation: He supported initiatives to protect Alaska's wildlife and preserve its natural resources.
* Native American Rights: Murkowski worked to address the needs of Native Alaskan communities and promote self-determination.
Impact and Legacy
Frank Murkowski's impact on Alaska extends beyond his official roles. His dedication to public service has inspired generations of politicians and community leaders. As a leader, he demonstrated a commitment to the principles of conservation, economic development, and social justice.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Murkowski is widely quoted for his insight into Alaskan politics and his experience in navigating the complexities of state government. His legacy serves as a reminder that effective leadership requires both vision and pragmatism.
As a figure who has navigated multiple roles within public service, Murkowski's perspective offers valuable insights into Alaska's past, present, and future.
Quotes by Frank Murkowski

One of Alaska’s strengths is our pioneer role in environmentally sensitive development.

The last time we heard a justification that economic advances would be jeopardized if workers were treated properly was shortly before Appomattox.

The dividend is vitally important to the dreams and needs of Alaskans and the economic vitality of the state,

You can set off bells when you walk out of a drugstore or department store with a tagged item.

By this letter I wish to formally notify you that I will continue to withhold my consent to the proposed realignment of Kulis Air National Guard Base in Anchorage and the 'warm storage' of Eielson Air Force Base until I receive assurances that the mission of the Air National Guard will not be compromised in Alaska,

Clearly, this is an extraordinary breach of national security, ... The last time we went through this with the Wen Ho Lee case, and now we find ourselves right back where we started.

I guess we can all conclude we've lost a giant in the sense of the contribution he made to our state, ... He was a philosopher, a guide, a pilot, a poet, a visionary. ... His contribution is evident when every Alaskan receives a Permanent Fund dividend.

If you tinker with it you so do, as I've indicated a long time ago, at your peril.

In the event California cannot repay generators for this power, the federal government is going to have to meet that obligation, because this was an order of the federal government,

If you believe this, you believe the world is flat, ... Because that's what some are suggesting: The last thing California needs is more power plants. If there's anything California needs, its more energy and you don't get it from thin air.