Politics

All news stories about local, statewide and Washington, D.C., politics.

An envelope with a division of elections address is placed in a mailbox

This year’s Alaska absentee ballots require two stamps, but USPS will still deliver them if you forget

The extra-long ballots are a result of the ranked choice presidential election. USPS says it'll still deliver them with insufficient postage.
Nenana

Nenana set to hold new municipal election

Local law allows the town of 417, which held its election Oct. 1, to hold a new one if voters have legitimate complaints about it.
a sign

The city of Palmer has a new interim manager

He will hold the job until a new permanent manager is hired.
Man speaking in crowded courtroom

State argues court should dismiss climate lawsuit from eight young Alaskans

The lawsuit filed by the nonprofit Our Children’s Trust is the latest effort by young Alaskans to establish a right to a livable climate.
A "Vote here" sign inside a building

Engaging voters in underserved communities | Talk of Alaska

What does it take to boost voter turnout across the state, especially in communities where people aren’t as likely to vote?
a man

Separation deal limits what Palmer officials can tell former manager’s future employers

The agreement is similar to one now-former Palmer City Manager Stephen Jellie had with a previous employer.
a statue

Alaska Capitol may begin screening all visitors in 2025, according to draft security proposal

Alaska's state Capitol is one of a few in the country to remain open to the public without a security screen required.
Mary Peltola

For Alaska’s leading U.S. House candidates, a grueling travel week that was — and wasn’t — unusual

Nick Begich and Rep. Mary Peltola saw three debates in three days, spanning more than 1,000 miles on the campaign trail.

Peltola, Begich face off in amiable Debate for the State

The candidates for U.S. House offered differing views on abortion and presidential elections while showcasing a difference in personal style.

Watch our 2024 Debate for the State: U.S. House

Catch up on debates with Alaska's candidates for U.S. Senate, U.S. House and governor.
a woman

Ad check: Does Alaska’s congresswoman vote with President Biden 80% of the time?

Yes, if you look at last year and only at the votes the president announced a position on. Most Democrats align more closely.
political ads on a table

That ad claiming Begich ‘sold phony medical devices’? Here’s the backstory.

U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola is running an attack ad on her Republican opponent, disparaging how he made his personal wealth.
Downtown Anchorage, with water in the foreground and mountains behind.

Anchorage Assembly considers ballot proposition that would introduce a 3% sales tax

If approved, supporters estimate it would generate about $180 million in annual revenue for the city.
two men

Former Democratic legislator narrowly wins Fairbanks Borough mayoral race

Grier Hopkins defeated fellow former state lawmaker John Coghill by just 154 votes in the high-turnout election.
a man

Palmer city manager resigns with $75,000 payout

Stephen Jellie's resignation was announced during an emergency city council meeting Wednesday.
a parade vehicle

Cat lost at Sitka’s animal shelter leads to conflict over volunteers

The volunteers, who ran the shelter for nearly a year but were locked out this summer, want city officials to let them back in.
People waiting in line waiting to cast their vote.

Moderate Alaska House and Senate candidates lead in fundraising a month out from election

“Moderate to progressive people have figured out fundraising better than their Republican counterparts,” political consultant Jim Lottsfeldt said.
a man

Palmer’s new city manager facing possible removal over ‘imminent threat’ of employee lawsuits

Palmer City Manager Stephen Jellie will appear at an emergency city council meeting Wednesday.
a debate

At U.S. House debate in Kodiak, candidates differ on future of Alaska fisheries

Nick Begich emphasized fighting for the state, Mary Peltola focused on support in Congress and John Howe called himself a "third wheel."
a woman speaks into a microphone behind a podium

In reversal, Anchorage Assembly approves $250K settlement with Demboski

“As much as it pains me to pass out money like this, I do think this is in the best interest of the city at this time,” said Assembly member Karen Bronga.