Alaska's Political Pipeline

JUNEAU, Alaska (KTUU) -- On this edition of Alaska's Political Pipeline: as lawmakers return from their Easter and Passover break, much waits for their return including the operating budget which has made it's way to the House Floor and includes a full statutory $3,800 PFD. That amount, though, may not be what Alaskans ultimately receive. Join John Thompson and Wil Courtney as they break down the latest headlines in national, state and local politics.

It's Passover and Easter weekend, lawmakers are out of Juneau as the Legislature is roughly halfway through the session.

Wil Courtney is in Alaska's capital city to highlight the week that was, including the firing of former United States Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Education funding is discussed as Wil explains base student allocation, or BSA.

The LNG impasse continues and a vetoed tax bill makes a return, passing the House via tight margin.

Pres. Donald Trump said the state of the union is strong - but what does Alaska's congressional delegation think? Investigative reporter Augusta McDonnell breaks down the statements from those leaders and interviews Sen. Dan Sullivan on what he thinks.

Read more on this story: https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2026/02/26/sotu-sullivan-acknowledges-some-heart-wrenching-deportation-cases-praises-trump-admins-immigration-enforcement-efforts/

After a Soldotna woman and two of her children, the youngest five, were deported from the country, lawmakers in the House Judiciary Committee investigate ICE activity in Alaska. Political reporter Wil Courtney breaks down the situation and speaks to the committee chair and other lawmakers on what they want to see next.

Read more at: ICE activity in Alaska: State lawmakers investigate after Soldotna family deportation

On this edition of Alaska's Political Pipeline, political reporter Wil Courtney speaks with House Speaker Bryce Edgmon the day before a resolution is introduced into the House focusing on the Rural Health Transportation Fund. In the conversation, he also comments on the recent temporary cut of the Permanent Fund Dividend by the House Finance committee and where former Typhoon Halong recovery stands.