Congressman-elect Nick Begich named Rick Whitbeck his state director for Alaska. Whitbeck was most recently the Alaska state director for Power the Future, a national pro-energy group. He was also a former vice chairman of the Alaska Republican Party and has held other roles, notably in telecommunications.
Whitbeck is well known across energy and telecommunications sectors and, through his work on many campaigns and ballot initiatives over the years, is a household name in Alaska political circles. Whitbeck has penned numerous opinion columns about Alaska energy; many of them were published by Must Read Alaska; he also hosted a talk radio show and a podcast.
As state director for Alaska congressional representative, Whitbeck will focus on outreach to constituents and manage regional offices and staff, including liaisons who can assist Alaskans with their needs that relate to federal agencies.
Other key appointments were announced by Begich. They are:
Michael Horanburg – Chief of Staff
Horanburg is a Capitol Hill veteran who helped lead the 2024 Begich for Congress campaign. Horanburg previously served as chief of staff in the 117th Congress for New Mexico’s Rep. Yvette Herrell, who represented a district with significant energy resources, a diverse population, and other challenges similar to those encountered in Alaska. He will oversee the office’s day-to-day operations, provide strategic direction, and serve as Begich’s primary advisor.
Kevin Swanson – Legislative Director/Deputy Chief of Staff
Swanson served as a legislative assistant for members of the Alaska delegation, managing issues including transportation and infrastructure, areas of critical expertise as Begich joins the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. Swanson will help develop legislative policy initiatives to address the needs of Alaskans.
Silver J. Prout – Communications Director/Fishery Liaison
Prout is a Kodiak native who has experience on Capitol Hill and in the Executive Branch for President Trump. She will manage public relations, media engagement, and ensure Alaskans remain informed about key issues, while also serving as the office’s liaison on fisheries-related matters.
Bre Klayum – Director of Operations
Klayum is a born-and-raised Alaskan. She will oversee the daily administrative operations of the D.C. office, ensuring efficiency and facilitating interactions between the Congressman’s office and the public. Klayum began her Capitol Hill career as deputy scheduler for Sen. Dan Sullivan, serving the Alaska in that capacity for more than three years.
“I am honored to introduce this outstanding team of dedicated professionals who will be pivotal in delivering real results for Alaska,” the congressman-elect said. “Together, we are committed to advancing Alaska First policies, responsibly unlocking our state’s immense natural resources, and improving the lives of hardworking Alaskans. This team has the expertise, determination, and vision to ensure Alaska’s priorities are not only heard but acted upon at the national level, paving the way for a stronger, more prosperous future for our state.”
Begich’s term — and his professional staff’s term — begins on Jan. 3. He has been collaborating with President Trump’s official transition team, members of Congress, House leadership, and Alaskans.
