Palin fills open Senate seat

Today Palin named Tim Grussendorf to fill the vacated Senate seat left by Kim Elton, who took a position in Obama's administration. As you may remember, the gang of lefties that do business behind closed doors only offered one name, Beth Kerttula, as the replacement for Elton. Palin didn't play that game and instead asked for applications be sent directly to her office. By law she had to choose a democrat, and I'm glad she didn't choose Kerttula.

The press release states that Grussendorf was a commercial fisherman and is currently president of the Southeast Alaska Fishermen's Alliance.

Palin Names Grussendorf to Senate Seat

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 09-68

Governor Names Grussendorf to Senate Seat

March 29, 2009, Juneau, Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin today named Tim Grussendorf as her designee to replace Kim Elton as the state senator from District B, representing the City and Borough of Juneau. Grussendorf has worked as a commercial fisherman and serves as chief of staff to Alaska State Senator Lyman Hoffman. He is currently president of the Southeast Alaska Fishermen’s Alliance and a board member of the Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association. Grussendorf is active in the Juneau community, volunteering his time to coach soccer and basketball teams. He is the assistant basketball coach at Floyd Dryden Middle School.

Grussendorf’s father, Ben Grussendorf, was a representative from Sitka and served as Speaker of the Alaska House of Representatives.

“Tim’s solid credentials and thorough understanding of the issues facing our state will serve his constituents well,” Governor Palin said. “I am confident he will be able to hit the ground running.”

Governor Palin said she appreciates the interest shown by so many qualified applicants for the position. “It is encouraging so many dedicated Alaskans stepped forward to offer their services to the constituents of District B and the State of Alaska,” said Governor Palin. “I’m confident the good people of our capital city can look forward to Tim joining Representatives Kerttula and Munoz in fine service.”

Grussendorf is married with two teenaged sons who are involved in Juneau sports teams. He must be confirmed by a simple majority of Senate Democrats.