Begich Says Obama Discontent, Not Active Ad, Cost Him Senate Seat

Republican Dan Sullivan will be Alaska's newest U.S. senator, but outgoing Sen. Mark Begich said he'll work in Washington until the last minute to push through legislation that will benefit Alaska.

The Senate plans to adjourn Dec. 11. In his last days, Begich hopes to pass a variety of bills he sponsored or supports, including ones that would help fishermen, subsistence hunters and tribal communities.

Alaska Dispatch News caught up with Begich on Thursday for an interview. He describes why he believes he lost after one term, discusses the infamous Jerry Active ad and the loss of a seat on the important Senate Appropriations committee, and expands on his hopes and fears for Alaska with a Republican majority sweeping into the Senate in January.

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