Steve Cowper

Stephen Cambreleng Cowper, born on August 21, 1938, is a former American politician affiliated with the Democratic Party. He served as a member of the Alaska State House of Representatives, representing District 20. Cowper is notably recognized for his tenure as the sixth governor of Alaska from 1986 to 1990, during which he oversaw significant events, including the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill. In addition to his political career, Cowper has held various roles in the private sector, particularly in energy-related consulting, and has been involved in multiple boards of energy companies in both the United States and Canada.

Early life and career

Steve Cowper was born in Petersburg, Virginia, to parents Stephanie and Marion Cowper. His early years were spent in Kinston, North Carolina, where he completed his education at the Virginia Episcopal School in Lynchburg. Cowper pursued higher education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned both a bachelor's degree and a law degree. Following his academic achievements, he served in the U.S. Army Medical Corps and later in the Army Reserve.

After completing his military service, Cowper worked as a maritime lawyer in Norfolk, Virginia, for three years. In 1968, he relocated to Fairbanks, Alaska, where he began his legal career as an assistant district attorney, focusing on rural Alaska and Fairbanks. His diverse experiences included a stint in Vietnam, where he worked as a freelance correspondent throughout Asia. Upon returning to Alaska, Cowper contributed to the local community by writing a political column for the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, teaching a college course on Alaska lands, and engaging in various business ventures, including a partnership in an air taxi and cargo operation. Additionally, he worked as a diver for a marine research team affiliated with the University of Alaska.

Legislative service

Cowper's political career began in earnest in 1974 when he was elected to the Alaska House of Representatives. He served two terms in this legislative body, during which he held several key positions. Notably, he was the chairman of the Finance Committee from 1977 to 1978, where he played a significant role in shaping the state's budgetary policies. He also chaired the Steering Council on Alaska Lands in 1978 and was a member of the Subsistence Committee during the same period. Furthermore, Cowper contributed to the Alaska Advisory Committee for the Law of the Sea Conference in 1978, demonstrating his engagement with both state and national issues.

In 1982, Cowper sought the Democratic nomination for governor but was narrowly defeated by Bill Sheffield, who subsequently won the general election. However, Cowper's political aspirations did not wane; he successfully ran for governor in 1986. In the primary election, he defeated the incumbent Sheffield by a substantial margin, securing his position as the Democratic candidate for the general election. Cowper went on to win the general election held on November 4, 1986, where he garnered 47% of the vote against Republican candidate Arliss Sturgulewski and Alaskan Independence Party candidate Joe Vogler.

Policy focus and district

During his governorship, Cowper faced the challenge of addressing Alaska's significant budget deficit, which exceeded one billion dollars. In response, he proposed the reestablishment of a state income tax as a means to generate revenue, a move that encountered considerable opposition from various stakeholders. His administration emphasized educational initiatives, particularly the expansion of the University of Alaska's international study program, and he advocated for the establishment of an International Trade Center. Cowper also prioritized the teaching of foreign languages and cultural studies in state schools, reflecting his commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for Alaskan students.

In early 1989, Cowper announced his decision not to seek reelection in 1990, a choice that surprised many political observers. His tenure as governor concluded, but his involvement in public service and the private sector continued. After leaving office, Cowper took on various roles, including serving as a visiting fellow at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in 1991. He was also a Co-Chairman of the Pacific Rim Fisheries Conference in 1994 and 1997.

Following his governorship, Cowper became the CEO of Steve Cowper & Associates, a consulting firm that specializes in advising companies and governments on energy-related initiatives. His expertise in the energy sector has led him to serve on the boards of multiple energy-related companies in both the United States and Canada. As of 2010, Cowper resides in Austin, Texas, with his third wife and family, continuing to engage in activities related to energy and public policy.

Cowper's political and professional journey reflects a commitment to public service and a focus on addressing the challenges faced by Alaska during his time in office. His legislative and executive experiences have contributed to his understanding of the complexities of governance and the importance of strategic policy-making in addressing state and national issues.