From the Anchorage Daily News:
MICHAEL R. BLOOD 11/18/08 9:22 PM EST AP
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Sen. Ted Stevens, the longest serving Republican in Senate history, narrowly lost his re-election bid Tuesday, marking the downfall of a Washington political power and Alaska icon who couldn't survive a conviction on federal corruption charges. His defeat to Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich moves Senate Democrats closer to a filibuster-proof 60-vote majority.
Stevens' ouster on his 85th birthday marks an abrupt realignment in Alaska politics and will alter the power structure in the Senate, where he has servedsince the days of the Johnson administration while holding seats on some of the most influential committees in Congress.
The crotchety octogenarian built like a birch sapling likes to encourage comparisons with the Incredible Hulk, but he occupies an outsized place in Alaska history. His involvement in politics dates to the days before Alaska statehood, and he is esteemed for his ability to secure billions of dollars in federal aid for transportation and military projects. The Anchorage airport bears his name; in Alaska, it's simply "Uncle Ted."
Tuesday's tally of just over 24,000 absentee and other ballots gave Begich 146,286, or 47.56 percent, to 143,912, or 46.76 percent, for Stevens.
[Later Update: Here's the New York Times report on the Alaska election results and the impacts on the US Senate.]
A lot of slack and A lot of credit to you and all the wonderful Alaskan Bloggers. You all should be proud. We are greatful to all of you for your honest coverage of SP and appreciate all your efforts in a unbelievable politial climate!!!!
ReplyDeleteNow I know even Alaskans can give a damn about how they do it outside. Yes, this will help about London when it becomes known I'm from that place 'she' comes from.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to Mark, to the voters, to the FBI, and to everyone who upset Republican hegemony in Alaskan politics. No senate seat for you this Christmas, Sarah.
Wow, Anon, I just asked for a little slack and you said all those nice things. Philip, Linda, Shanyn, Dennis, AKMuckraker, Gryph, and all the rest of the folks who have been blogging their hearts out will appreciate your words.
ReplyDeleteJay, you'll be able to come home for a visit soon if this stuff keeps up.