WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) released the following statement on the passing of Congressman Don Young (R-Alaska):“I’m incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Don Young. Don was a dear friend, and a legend of the House. He was a passionate champion of his home state of Alaska, but he was also a mentor who, as the Dean of the House, had more institutional knowledge of Congress than anyone I know.“He was a champion of the energy industry, and fought to open up more American land to oil exploration and drilling, including ANWR. “He loved the great outdoors, and he enjoyed coming down to south Louisiana to go fishing along our vibrant bayous and marshes. “Don will be missed. My prayers are with his wife Anne and his family.”