On November 20, 2009, Senator Begich joined a discussion on the senate floor about health care reforms that will empower Americans seeking lower rates, fair treatment and quality care from the health insurance industry. Sen. Begich shared personal anecdotes from his relatives and their struggles with health insurance.
On November 9, 2009, Sen. Mark Begich joined Senators Daniel Akaka (D - HI) and Jon Tester (D - MT) at a press conference to discuss legislation to improve health care services to America's veterans. The press conference highlighted the senators' call for passage of the bipartisan Caregiver and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009, which has awaited passage for more than three months. Among other things, the legislation will provide benefits to caregivers of severely injured veterans, improve rural health care accessibility, expand health care services to women, improve mental care treatment, provide outreach to homeless veterans and enhance VA medical services.
Begich Introduces Arctic Bills
Mon, August 3, 2009
Alaska Democratic Senator Mark Begich introduced on the Senate floor today a set of seven bills dealing with the Arctic. He’s calling the whole package “Inuvikput,” after an Inupiaq word that means, “the place where we live.”
Libby Casey, APRN - Washington DC
Begich Meets with Supreme Court Nominee
Wed, June 24, 2009
Alaska Senator Mark Begich (D-AK) met with Supreme Court nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor today in the U-S Capitol Building. The two sat down behind closed doors for a lengthy 45 minute session. Begich called it a “good discussion.”
Libby Casey, APRN - Washington DC
Senator Begich on Purple Heart Radio
Mon, June 22, 2009
Senator Begich speaks with Purple Heart Radio. Senator Begich shares his experiences meeting with the members of Operation Denali, the group of injured soldiers climbing Denali. Senator Begich also speaks about his position on the Veteran's Affairs Committee, and some of the upcoming legislation related to armed service members and veterans.
Begich Protesting Cuts to Missile Defense Program
Wed, June 17, 2009
Senator Mark Begich (D) is continuing to press his case for blocking cuts to the missile defense program at Fort Greely in Delta Junction. He questioned top defense officials on Tuesday, including the head of the Missile Defense program at an Armed Services Committee hearing.
Libby Casey, APRN - Washington, DC
Senator Begich Calls for Arctic Ambassador
Wed, June 10, 2009
Senator Mark Begich (D-Alaska) is calling for the creation of a new government position: Ambassador for the Arctic.
Libby Casey, APRN - Washington DC
Murkowski and Begich Allied on Pipeline
Tue, June 9, 2009
Outside the Energy Committee and across the aisle, US Senator Lisa Murkowski (R) has a supporter for her pipeline loan guarantee measures. Alaska’s Junior Senator, Mark Begich (D).
Libby Casey, APRN - Washington DC
Tue, June 2, 2009
North Korea is reportedly preparing an intercontinental missile for launch. The country has been blowing up explosives underground and launching short-range missiles for the past week while at the same time preparing for ruler Kim Jong Il to be succeeded by his youngest son. That became official today. Analysts say North Korea could have as many as four intercontinental missiles. On Monday, Defense Secretary Robert Gates took a look at an interceptor rocket based at Fort Greely and announced that the U.S. is ready for any missile threat from North Korea.
Steve Heimel, APRN - Anchorage
Feds Could Help with Financing for Gas Line
Tue, June 2, 2009
The cost of a natural gas line from the North Slope to North American markets has increased dramatically while it has been a political issue for the past 30 years. And there’s a good chance the federal government will recognize that by guaranteeing financing for more of the cost of the project.
Dave Donaldson, APRN - Juneau
May 25, 2009
Senator Begich shares his thoughts and opinions regarding the credit card bill.
Senator Begich Tours Afghanistan
Mon, May 25, 2009
Senator Mark Begich is in Afghanistan with four other Senators, meeting with soldiers and government officials.
Steve Heimel, APRN - Anchorage
Congress Passes Restrictions on Credit Card Rules and Bill to OK Guns in Parks
Wed, May 20, 2009
Alaska’s Congressional delegation has voted to tighten regulations on credit cards - and to allow loaded guns in national parks. The credit card reform legislation passed the Senate and House this week, and now goes to the President for his signature.
Libby Casey, APRN - Washington DC
Signed into law in February 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is expected to bring $800 million dollars to the state of Alaska helping to create an estimated 8,000 jobs. On February 10th, Senator Begich sat down and explained the benefits that the Recovery act will create for Alaskans.
On March 13th, 2009, Senator Mark Begich met with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office. In the meeting the President and the Senator discussed the need to continue work on the missile defense systems at Fort Greely and the need for a strong oil and gas industry.
Senator Mark Begich welcomes you to his new Official Senate Website.