Coal-Related Policy Driving

This sub-dynamic in the coal investment loop (top figure) depicts the driving effect that development of a particular economic sector can have, particularly in states like Alaska with relatively small voter bases.

Alaska’s population consists largely of domestic immigrants. Due to Alaska’s limited voting base, the population of short-term industrial residents and of long-term residents who are attracted to Alaska because of industry-related opportunities has a significant effect on policy.  This occurs both through general voting patterns, and through the relative power of small, well-organized special interest groups.

While this image is particular to coal development, this principle is broadly relevant in Alaska state politics.  Whether the "special interest" in question is oil & gas development, fishing, conservation groups, or snowmobile enthusiasts, the basic dynamic is similar: the relatively small population size of the state gives small groups of well-organized people potentially greater influence.  Where out-of-state entities or transient worker groups bring in heavy funding or focused agendas, they can likewise have a very strong influence.


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