Alaska Governor-Lieutenant Governor Race Heats Up

Seventeen pairs of candidates vied for a spot in the November general election to replace outgoing Republican Governor Michael Dunleavy. Former state Representative Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins and running mate Zac Johnson emerged as top contenders, along with former Democratic state Senator Tom Begich and Julia Hnilicks. They will compete with two additional candidate pairs in the fall election. Notable figures were among the 34 candidates in this primary race.

Tom Begich, the frontrunner, belongs to a family with deep roots in Alaska politics. His father, Nick Begich Sr., served in both state and federal legislatures until his disappearance during a flight between Anchorage and Juneau. Tom’s brother, Mark Begich, was a U.S. senator, while most family members are Democrats. This excludes incumbent Rep. Nick Begich III, a Republican.

Republicans hope to hold their ground with business owner Bernadette Wilson, who is prominent in the race. Wilson, a lifelong Alaskan from Kenai, pairs with Michael Shower as her running mate. Former Republican Lieutenant Governor Nancy Dahlstrom dropped out earlier this year, narrowing the field. Michael Loren Gilbert aims to enhance Alaska’s energy leadership and explore a highway link to the continental U.S. Gilbert’s running mate, Timothy Hickel, comes from a notable political family. His father, former Governor Wally Hickel, served twice and was Secretary of the Interior under President Nixon, with landmarks named in his honor.

Another Republican candidate, former Anchorage Mayor David Bronson, teams with Josh Church. Former state Senator Click Bishop, with Lieutenant Governor candidate Greta Schuerch, also remains in the race.

Alaska employs a ranked-choice voting system. Voters list candidates by preference, and votes are reallocated in rounds as lower-ranked candidates exit. This system provides a strategic opportunity for Democrats, like Begich, to potentially secure the governor’s position. Begich III previously defeated Rep. Mary Peltola, shifting the political dynamics in Alaska.