The issue is policy, not politicians. A "voice" is not what the Native community wants. They want teeth--a special ability to approve, stop or modify national policy, disproportionate to the voice of other Alaskans. If they don't get their way, they want special "standing" or rights to sue. Coastal communities have unique challenges and knowledge--all true, and to be respected. But is "local knowledge" about protecting subsistence and cultural autonomy or is it used as leverage to siphon money from taxpayers and to advance political agendas? Alaskans who oppose wasteful spending are not racists. It is possible to cherish our Native brothers, and their subsistence culture, but to reject race-based preferences and policies of any kind--to cherish the wisdom of elders and diversity without supporting privilege in the courts. Are Alaskans asked to support a way of life--local economies, subsistence harvesting, cultural integrity--or an agenda that seeks to leverage money from lawsuits?