Top Stories

News stories, radio and TV episodes that warrant one of six spots on our homepage. The homepage is in chronological order of publication date, so stories are moved off the homepage as more are categorized “top stories.”

What happens if Roe v. Wade goes? In Alaska, ‘nothing’

If the 1973 case is overturned, states would have more power to restrict abortion, or possibly ban the procedure entirely within their boundaries. But in Alaska, the right to abortion is stronger than it is in much of the country or in federal law. Listen now

Judge orders that some political signs can remain for now — but not all

Superior Court Judge Herman Walker’s order allows the state to continue to enforce the ban within the state’s right of way. That’s as long as the state treats political and commercial signs the same. Listen now

State fines group opposing salmon habitat initiative for violating naming rule

The Alaska Public Offices Commission says the group violated a rule that requires an organization fighting an initiative to clearly state its opposition in its name. Listen now

Security questioned after grandmother’s alleged assault during courthouse hearing

It took 11 minutes for a law enforcement officer to arrive after a courtroom incident in which a woman says she was punched out. Listen now

Investigation confirms unsafe conditions at psychiatric hospital

A report commissioned by the state found barriers to a safe workplace at the Alaska Psychiatric Institute, but no evidence of retaliation against employees. Listen now
A white woman with curly redish hair speaks in front of a wooden desk

A political consultant’s work was scrutinized amid Anchorage voter fraud allegations. Now he’s dead.

Charlie Chang worked with Anchorage Republican Rep. Gabrielle LeDoux, whose district includes parts of the Muldoon neighborhood and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Listen now

Alaska Federation of Natives opposes Kavanaugh Supreme Court nomination

The Alaska Federation of Natives says it opposes the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court. Listen now

Here’s where the candidates for governor stand on abortion

Walker said he would veto legislation, Begich said he would do more and Dunleavy doesn’t expect change. Listen now

Rag-tag group of scientists produces a paper on a 300-foot Alaska tsunami

Imagine a wave as tall as the ConocoPhillips building in downtown Anchorage. It happened just three years ago in Southeast Alaska. A new scientific paper makes the case that climate change could increase the likelihood of these events. Listen now

Why AFN wants Murkowski to reject Kavanaugh

Sen. Lisa Murkowski still isn't saying how she'll vote on the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court. But Wednesday, a powerful voice joined the Alaskans urging her to vote no: the Alaska Federation of Natives. Listen now

As administration pursues ANWR drilling, Trump official accuses federal employees of creating ‘road bumps’

In an interview last month, Balash describee what he called a “really difficult management challenge” with Fish and Wildlife Service employees. He said during a recent meeting with the agency in Alaska, he felt employees weren’t eager to carry out the new law. Listen now

Murkowski, Sullivan: Take Kavanaugh accusation seriously

Both of Alaska's U.S. senators say the allegation against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh deserve to be heard, despite its age. Listen now

Charges filed against 41-year-old in Kotzebue investigation

On Monday afternoon, federal officials announced charges against a Kotzebue man in the case of a missing girl who was found dead last Friday. Listen now

Juneau’s cruise passenger fee lawsuit heads toward trial

Attorneys sparred over the constitutionality of Juneau’s head tax levied on cruise ship passengers. The oral arguments in federal court could be a prelude of things to come as the lawsuit heads toward trial. Listen now

Murkowski keeps faith in Kavanaugh hearing

With new uncertainty over Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, Sen. Lisa Murkowski is again the focus of attention. As for his views on the legal status of Alaska Natives, she says they spoke and he allayed her concerns. Listen now

Opponents pack Anchorage hearing on salmon habitat ballot measure

A ballot initiative aimed at protecting salmon habitat is facing stiff opposition from industry groups, unions and Native corporations in Alaska. That opposition was on full display at an Anchorage hearing on the measure this week. Listen now

Walker, Mallott say ‘no’ on Kavanaugh

The governor and lieutenant governor cite Kavanaugh's legal views and the 36-year-old sexual assault allegation against the nominee, which Kavanaugh vigorously denies. Listen now

Campaign complaint filed against salmon ballot backers

Stand for Alaska claims Stand for Salmon, Yes for Salmon and the Alaska Center are improperly reporting how they are coordinating the campaign, underplaying the Alaska Center's role. Stand for Alaska also alleges they aren't properly disclosing campaign contribution sources. Stand for Alaska denies the allegations. Listen now

Outrage as Anchorage man charged in violent attack receives no jail time

The state Department of Law is defending its plea deal with an Anchorage man - originally charged with kidnapping and assaulting a woman to whom he offered a ride. He was let off this week on time served, with some suspended. And that has angered some, including a group organizing to campaign against retaining the judge in the case. Listen now

State charges 41-year-old in death of Kotzebue girl

Prosecutors allege that Peter Wilson abducted and killed 10-year-old Ashley Johnson-Barr in a case that has gripped attention for weeks. Listen now