John Howard Lindauer II

John Howard Lindauer II is a former American state legislator who served in the Alaska House of Representatives. A member of the Republican Party, he represented District 10 and has a background in economics and academia. Lindauer's career includes significant roles in education and media, as well as a notable candidacy for governor of Alaska. His life has spanned various professional fields, including economics, higher education, and public service.

Early life and career

John Howard Lindauer II was born on November 20, 1937, in Montclair, New Jersey, to parents Louise and John Howard Lindauer I. He completed his secondary education at North Phoenix High School in Arizona, where he attended from 1951 to 1954. Following high school, Lindauer pursued higher education at Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. He furthered his studies at Oklahoma State University, where he obtained a Ph.D. in economics.

Lindauer's early career included a three-year service in the United States Army, followed by five years in the Army Reserve. After his military service, he transitioned into academia, beginning as an assistant professor of economics at Occidental College from 1964 to 1966. He then advanced to associate professor and later full professor at Claremont McKenna College and the Claremont Graduate School from 1966 to 1974. His academic career continued as he became the dean of the business school at Murray State University in Kentucky.

In 1976, Lindauer relocated to Alaska, where he took on the role of chancellor at the University of Alaska Anchorage, serving until 1978. Following his tenure as chancellor, he became the dean of the School of Business and Public Affairs at the same institution. His involvement in higher education was complemented by his work in public service; he served as one of the state commissioners for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and later worked with the Alaska Post-Secondary Education Commission. Lindauer also engaged in media, co-publishing Alaska Rural Newspapers, which produced ten local newspapers, and he was the builder and president of Denali Broadcasting and the Alaska Radio Network, which operated five radio stations.

Legislative service

Lindauer's political career began when he won a seat in the Alaska House of Representatives, representing District 10. His election to the state legislature marked a significant step in his public service career. During his tenure, he was a member of the House Finance Committee, where he contributed to discussions and decisions regarding the state’s budget and financial matters. His legislative service is noted for its focus on the economic issues facing Alaska, reflecting his background in economics and public policy.

In addition to his role in the state legislature, Lindauer had aspirations for higher office. He initially sought the governorship of Alaska in 1990 as a member of the Alaskan Independence Party, but he withdrew from the race due to personal circumstances, specifically the illness of his wife. His political ambitions resurfaced in 1998 when he won the Republican primary for governor. His campaign was marked by significant financial expenditures, totaling approximately $1.7 million. However, this campaign was later overshadowed by legal issues related to campaign finance violations.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his time in the Alaska House of Representatives, Lindauer's policy focus was influenced by his extensive background in economics and education. His experience as an educator and administrator in higher education likely informed his perspectives on funding for education and economic development initiatives within the state. As a member of the House Finance Committee, he was positioned to influence budgetary decisions that affected various sectors, including education, infrastructure, and public services.

Lindauer's district, District 10, encompasses a diverse constituency, and his legislative efforts were aimed at addressing the needs and concerns of his constituents. His work in the legislature was characterized by a commitment to understanding the economic landscape of Alaska, which is shaped by its unique geography and resources. The state’s economy, heavily reliant on natural resources, required careful financial planning and policy-making, areas in which Lindauer's expertise was particularly relevant.

Despite his political aspirations, Lindauer's career was not without controversy. His 1998 gubernatorial campaign ended with legal repercussions due to campaign finance violations, which resulted in a plea of no contest. The fallout from this situation included a suspended sentence, community service, probation, and a financial penalty. Following these events, Lindauer indicated plans to relocate back to Chicago, marking a significant transition in his life after years of public service in Alaska.

In summary, John Howard Lindauer II's career reflects a blend of academic achievement, public service, and political ambition. His contributions to the state of Alaska, both in the realm of education and as a legislator, underscore the diverse experiences that shaped his professional life. After a lengthy period in Alaska, he currently resides in Chicago, where he continues to engage with his family and community.