For most elections, the state of Alaska caps campaign contributions at $500 from individuals and $1,000 from political action committees. But on ballot measures, money is treated as a form of free speech, so the sky’s the limit. Spending on one measure dwarfs everything else on Alaska’s August 26 primary ballot. One side calls it a clean water initiative, the other calls it an anti-mining measure. The mining industry, environmental groups, and at least one mystery donor have poured more than $8 million into the initiative.
John Ryan, KTOO – Juneau
