Full Press Release
News from the Alaska State Legislature, the Office of Senator Cronk
For Immediate Release: March 31, 2026
Senate Majority Caucus Attempts to Tip Balance of Power
Senator Mike Cronk
JUNEAU – Today the Alaska State Senate passed SJR 2, an act reducing the number of votes needed for a budget-related veto override, damaging the balance of power championed by the Alaska Constitution.
Currently, a three-quarter majority vote is required to override budget and tax vetoes by the governor. Senate Joint Resolution 2 would reduce the number of required votes to two-thirds of the Legislature.
Unlike other state legislatures – including Congress – the Alaska Constitution does not explicitly limit the power of the Legislature. As a result, our legislature is one of the most powerful and influential in the country with very few Constitutional checks and balances.
The Governor’s notorious “red pen” is one of the few tools the Executive Branch has to curb the State Legislature’s wide-reaching power.
According to Senate Minority Leader Mike Cronk (R – Tok / Northway), “The framers of our Constitution saw the wisdom in giving the governor considerable power to reduce state spending.” The Finance Committee member continued, “The fiscal override threshold is high for a reason.”
SJR 2 is a short-sighted and retaliatory push from the Democrat-lead Majority Caucus and is a transparent statement of their will to power.
Recently, Governor Mike Dunleavy (R – Alaska) rightfully vetoed tax increases, irresponsible fiscal measures, and questionable appropriations put forth by the Majority. This resolution is a transparent statement of the Majority’s will to power.
The Senate Republican Caucus will consistently uphold the balance of power enshrined in the Alaska State Constitution and within the values of our nation.
If SJR 2 is confirmed by the State House, it will appear on the 2026 ballot to be considered by voters.
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