SC Alaska News

Senator Dan Sullivan, representing Alaska, shared a series of posts on July 29, 2025, regarding recent policy changes affecting the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPR-A). In his statements, Sullivan contrasts the approaches of the Biden and Trump administrations toward resource development in the region.

In his first post, Sullivan wrote: "For four years, the Biden administration fought to lock up NPR-A, one of the most prolific oil basins in the world specifically set aside by Congress for responsible resource development. But under the Trump administration, it is a new day filled with opportunity for Alaskans." (July 29, 2025)

Sullivan continued by acknowledging recent actions taken by Secretary Burgum: "I want to commend @SecretaryBurgum for rescinding these 3 key policy documents that were issued by the Biden administration to lock up NPR-A, shut down Alaska’s economy, and defy the voices of Alaska Native leaders of the North Slope. [2/3]" (July 29, 2025)

He further referenced executive and legislative measures under President Trump aimed at supporting Alaska's resource sector: "@SecretaryBurgum Between President Trump's Day One Alaska-specific executive order and the key resource provisions for Alaska in the One Big Beautiful Bill, we are on the cusp of a historic opportunity to bolster our resource development economy, dramatically increase revenues to the State of" (July 29, 2025).

The NPR-A is a federally managed area on Alaska's North Slope known for its significant oil reserves. Congressional designation has long emphasized both energy development and environmental stewardship within its boundaries. Under previous administrations—including President Biden's—there were efforts to limit oil exploration and drilling in parts of NPR-A due to environmental concerns and opposition from some groups. These policies have been subject to debate among state officials and local communities who view resource extraction as vital for economic growth.

Recent administrative actions cited by Senator Sullivan include revoking certain restrictions implemented during President Biden's term. The new approach aligns with positions advocated by many Alaskan leaders who argue that expanded access will support jobs and increase state revenues through greater oil production.