Alaska’s Native Iñupiat communities have emerged as key voices in the nation’s energy debate, with some groups strongly favoring Trump-era drilling policies while criticizing Biden’s approach for shutting them out of decisions directly affecting their economic future.
Quick Takes
- The Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat, representing many North Slope communities, supported Trump’s pro-drilling policies and criticizes Biden’s restrictions
- Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy awarded at least $1 million in state funds to the pro-drilling Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat organization
- North Slope Iñupiat communities rely heavily on oil revenue, with 95% of the regional budget coming from related infrastructure taxes
- Opposing Native groups like Sovereign Iñupiat for a Living Arctic advocate for environmental protection over drilling expansion
- Rep. Nick Begich claims Biden administration policies sidelined Alaska Native voices in energy development decisions
Divided Native Communities Face Different Economic Visions
The debate over Arctic drilling has created sharp divisions among Alaska’s Native communities, with organizations like Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat (VAI) standing firmly in support of responsible resource development. VAI represents 21 member organizations including Alaska Native corporations and communities whose economies depend heavily on oil revenue. This coalition has found itself allied with Alaska’s Republican Governor Mike Dunleavy, who awarded the group at least $1 million in state funds through a five-year reimbursable grant focused on North Slope resource development.
“DOI’s announcement is a positive step toward stronger engagement with North Slope Iñupiat communities—and a welcome change from the last administration’s approach that put politics over our people, our self-determination, and its legal obligation to consult with governments on the North Slope,” said Doreen Leavitt from a North Slope community.
Not all Native voices support expanded drilling. Groups such as Sovereign Iñupiat for a Living Arctic and Native Movement have opposed new oil developments, advocating instead for what they describe as a more equitable economic approach that prioritizes environmental protection. The Arctic region is home to diverse Alaska Native communities whose traditional ways of life depend on healthy lands and caribou herds that can be threatened by industrial development.
Trump vs. Biden: Contrasting Approaches to Alaska’s Resources
The stark policy differences between the Trump and Biden administrations regarding Arctic drilling have significant implications for Alaska Native communities. Under Trump, drilling was opened for development in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and the Arctic Wildlife National Refuge’s Coastal Plain, aligning with his vision of “American Energy Dominance.” Many North Slope leaders viewed this approach favorably, as it promised economic opportunities in regions where few alternatives exist.
“It’s cautious optimism,” said Nagruk Harcharek, the president of the Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat nonprofit. “We feel like we’re going to be able to get some things done with a more favorable administration, but we’re also being careful about it because we don’t want to threaten that cultural base and lifestyle that we rely on every day.” – Source
In contrast, the Biden administration implemented policies aimed at balancing oil development with preservation and climate concerns, significantly restricting drilling opportunities. This approach drew sharp criticism from VAI and Governor Dunleavy, who argued that Biden’s policies deprived Alaskans of vital jobs and economic development. The North Slope’s economy illustrates this dependence, with 95% of its budget derived from taxes on oil and gas infrastructure.
Consultation and Representation Concerns
A central complaint from pro-development Native leaders centers on what they describe as insufficient consultation by the Biden administration on policies directly impacting their communities. Many felt their voices were not adequately considered before the administration implemented sweeping restrictions on resource development. This perception of being sidelined has fueled support for a return to Trump-era policies among certain Native groups.
“The voices of North Slope Iñupiat communities were not given a seat at the table under the Biden administration, and Alaska’s resources were locked up with the stroke of a pen.” – Source
Critics, however, question whether VAI truly represents the majority consensus it claims among Iñupiaq organizations. They suggest that oil companies and their supporters effectively overshadow dissenting voices within Arctic communities. Environmental advocates argue that rapid fossil fuel cuts are necessary to mitigate climate crisis impacts, which disproportionately affect Arctic regions. This perspective is captured by Native Movement’s Enei Begaye, who stated: “We can make a living without cannibalizing our lands.”
Economic Realities and Self-Determination
For many North Slope communities, the debate transcends politics—it’s about economic survival and self-determination. With few economic alternatives in the remote Arctic region, oil and gas development provides critical revenue for basic services, education, and infrastructure. VAI’s funding supports education about Iñupiaq culture and addresses regional challenges, emphasizing the importance of Native self-determination in economic development decisions.
“Secretary Burgum’s decision … suggests our community’s voice is finally being heard in Washington,” said Charles Lampe from an Arctic community, reflecting the sentiment of many who felt marginalized by previous policy decisions. – Source
Republican Alaska Rep. Nick Begich has supported the pro-development stance, highlighting potential benefits for energy prices and national security. Alaska’s political leadership, including Governor Dunleavy, has actively collaborated with VAI, attending meetings and co-authoring opinion pieces promoting Arctic drilling. Critics have characterized this relationship as unusually close, with one observer noting: “The governor has an unusually close relationship with [the] Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat.”
Sources:
- Alaska governor awards $1m in state funds to Indigenous group backing oil drilling
- Alaskan Tribes ‘Applaud’ Trump Admin Revoking ‘Deeply Flawed’ Biden Admin Energy Policy
- Native American Alaskan group applauds Trump for lifting drilling restrictions, says Biden ignored native communities
