Sullivan resigns as DNR commissioner

Dan Sullivan has resigned his position as commissioner of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, effective Sept, 24, Gov. Sean Parnell’s office announced on Sept. 12.

In a resignation letter to the governor, dated Sept. 11, Sullivan thanked both Parnell and former Gov. Sarah Palin for the opportunity to serve in the state administration — Sullivan served as the state’s attorney general before becoming DNR commissioner. Sullivan did not offer a reason for his resignation.

According to a report in the Anchorage Daily News there is speculation that Sullivan may run for an Alaska seat in the U.S. Senate next year.

As DNR commissioner Sullivan has been at the center of some major oil and gas issues including negotiations with ExxonMobil over the development of the Point Thomson field on the North Slope, promoting changes in Alaska’s oil production tax and seeking ways to make the state’s permitting procedures more efficient. As an enthusiastic proponent of a North Slope gas line and the future export of North Slope gas, Sullivan has travelled internationally and participated in meetings and conferences, promoting Alaska natural gas.

“In his role as attorney general and DNR commissioner, Dan has played a key role in getting big things done to strengthen Alaska’s economy and families,” said Parnell in a statement announcing that he had accepted Sullivan’s resignation. “As attorney general, Dan played a major role in the ‘Choose Respect’ initiative and fought hard against federal overreach. During his tenure as commissioner, Dan led the state’s efforts in resource development and permitting reform, and worked to resolve Point Thomson litigation — setting the stage for a natural gas pipeline. Dan has been an instrumental part of my administration and his leadership will be missed. I wish him much success in the future.”

—Alan Bailey