The Alaska Center endorses candidates who align with our vision of a thriving, just, and sustainable future.
We prioritize leaders who will fight for clean air and water, healthy salmon and communities, and a strong democracy. Through our endorsements, we aim to elevate voices that will take critical action on the issues we work on.
Our endorsements span multiple levels of government, including utility cooperative boards, municipal, statewide and federal elections. We focus on supporting leaders who have the power to influence the policies that matter most to our mission.
Below are our current endorsement for U.S. House, Alaska Governor, and the Alaska State Legislature. These candidates have demonstrated commitment to community-centered leadership and the responsibility of public service.
Election for U.S. Congress
General Election: November 3, 2026
Bill Hill
Independent running for U.S. Congress
Bill Hill is the best candidate to win in November, and advance an agenda that ensures Alaskans can afford to stay and thrive here. Hill sees the opportunity to transition to clean energy, stabilize costs, and protect Alaskans’ way of life while ensuring that all Alaskans have their voices heard in D.C.
Rep. Begich has completely abandoned Alaskans in support of the MAGA agenda that has left families in financial crisis and concerned for the future, and put our state’s lands and wildlife at risk. With Bill Hill’s varied experiences and the broad coalition he is building, he is well-positioned to build the big tent necessary to defeat Nick Begich this fall.
Bill Hill is ready to build a better future. As an Alaska Native who grew up off the road system and lived much of his life in rural Alaska, his voice is critical and must be represented in D.C. The Alaska Center is proud to endorse Bill Hill as a candidate who puts Alaska values above party loyalty and who will work toward solutions that benefit hard-working Alaskans, rather than special interests.
Election for Governor
General Election: November 3, 2026
Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins
Governor
I’m running for Governor because Alaska needs change. Salmon runs are failing. Schools are closing. Prices are rising. Alaska needs a governor who will step up and get our state back on track.
Election for State Legislature
General Election: November 3, 2026
Grant Echohawk
House District 1
My vision for Alaska is to keep the government out of the lives of Alaskans, end corporate tax subsidies, leverage state and federal funds to support programs and services that benefit Alaskans, and do it all by adhering to sound and well established science. As part of my effort to make policy decisions based on sound science, I will be a very vocal advocate for addressing the impacts of climate change throughout our state that are having a devastating impact on salmon populations and habitats. I will also vehemently oppose any legislation that will restrict voting access while working to expand access to voting in our rural communities.
Rebecca Himschoot
House District 2
I was drawn to Alaska by its incredible beauty and the opportunities it offers to be connected to the ecosystems and wild places that sustain us. Alaska Native people have thrived for thousands of years by living in balance with natural systems. I envision a future in which our economic and environmental policies strive for that balance. A strong education is the foundation for a flourishing economy and for sustaining our democracy. As the economic and environmental challenges and tradeoffs facing Alaska become more difficult and complex, it is critical that Alaskans have the knowledge and critical thinking skills to understand their world and make informed choices.
Andi Story
House District 3
My vision for Alaska is a place where everyone thrives. The Legislature comes together with the will to deliver on a fiscal plan that provides stability. The lack of a stable budget has put at risk the things Alaskans care about: good jobs, education, safe and healthy communities and environments. People live here to enjoy our clean air, water, bountiful fish, game, mariculture and healthy environments. To have this we need a robust state budget and policies that works for all communities and businesses. Every voice must be heard, every culture honored.
Sara Hannan
House District 4
I am seeking re-election to my fifth term in the Alaska House. As a life-long Alaskan I have seen the impacts on Alaska from growth and climate change. I want to focus on keeping Alaskan water, air, flora and fauna healthy and supportive. We have PFAS contamination that we need to clean up. We have climate impacted ecosystems we need to mitigate and protect. And there are many Alaskans that we need to help so that we all succeed together.
Kathy Simpler
House District 5
I grew up commercial fishing in Prince William Sound out of Cordova and raised my family in Kodiak. I started as a public school teacher in 1996 and spent three decades working with students, families, and communities across our state. I’m running because I believe coastal Alaska deserves leadership that understands the unique challenges we face and the resources we depend on. We’ve been fortunate to have leaders who put local issues ahead of politics, and that’s the approach I’ll bring to Juneau. Whether on a fishing boat, in a classroom, or in the Legislature, I know the best outcomes come from working together. I’ll fight for strong fisheries, excellent public schools, reliable ferry service, rural infrastructure, affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and good-paying jobs that keep families in Alaska. I would be honored to serve the communities that shaped me as a practical voice for coastal Alaska.
Brent Johnson
House District 6
I was born in Seldovia and have lived in House District 6 my entire life. I have worked in fisheries as a commercial setnetter for more than 50 years and have over a decade of experience on the Assembly where I previously served as President. In that role I was at the forefront of making our local government more effective and responsive to the needs of my community. I have served on various committees and commissions including the Kenai Peninsula Borough Planning Commission, Kenai Peninsula Borough Board of Equalization, Kenai Peninsula Fishermen’s Association, Cook Inlet Aquaculture Association, and more. My deep roots in District 6, from my education at Ninilchik High School to my professional and volunteer engagements, have shaped my commitment to serve each of my future constituents. I am running because I think local and state government can do more for everyday Alaskans than it has been. I see a future where District 6’s children have access to a holistic and engaging education that prepares them for life, where people have work opportunities that allows them to put food on the table for their families, where fisherfolk have healthy fisheries to fish in, and where a woman’s right to privacy is protected by law. This is the future that I’d like to achieve by becoming District 6’s representative in the legislature.
Nissa Savage
House District 8
I am running to fight for Alaska. I believe in an Alaska of abundance where families can afford to live and thrive in the uniquely Alaskan way that we all love. Getting this will require having a plan, a long-term and careful plan. We need a diverse economy that doesn’t focus only on oil; we need stable revenue. This vision for Alaska is impossible without protecting the very basics of Alaskan life: clean air and clean water. We cannot take a short-sighted approach to the preservation of the fisheries and all wild habitats across the state, and we must constantly work to support local communities and empower regular Alaskans. By protecting our environment and our democratic process, we can secure a prosperous, stable future where our children can grow up catching fish and building lasting careers.
Ky Holland
House District 9
I’m running for public office because I believe in an Alaska where families can afford to stay, communities can shape their futures, and there’s abundant opportunities for the next generation. I trust in the potential to turn our natural and human assets into shared prosperity without sacrificing the clean water, air, and ecosystems that sustain us. Actualizing this possibility requires excellent schools, affordable and reliable energy, resilient infrastructure, locally-owned businesses, and responsible, strategic development. It means confronting the reality that climate change is reshaping our coasts, fisheries, forests, and endangering rural communities. It relies on strong democratic institutions that expand voter access, protect fair elections, and promote transparency in government. This is a future to build together, with input from all perspectives. Alaskans deserve a meaningful influence over decisions affecting their communities; I will work across differences, build trust, and give Alaskans the tools to create the future they choose.
Danni Hall
House District 11
I became very fed up with the extreme tax breaks we are giving to the oil industry. This has cost us education, public safety, and environmental protections. It is time that it stops. I would like to see some homegrown diversified energy built. As well as close the S corp loop hole. The fact
that Pebble Mine is STILL going through the courts is infuriating to me. I will do whatever I can as State Representative to ensure it is not allowed to be built. I believe Trawlers are one of the biggest threats to a healthy salmon run. As a State Representative I will fight hard to remove them from our state waterways. An informed Democracy is reliant on a strong press. I will do all I can to keep the public informed of the factual events occurring within our state. Propaganda and corruption are killing our democracy.
Calvin Schrage
House District 12
I’m running for re‐election for the same reasons I first stepped forward in 2019. I love this state – it’s home for me and my family – and I remain committed to doing everything I can to ensure Alaska is a great place to live, work, raise a family, and retire. The leaders we elect in November will shape Alaska’s future for decades, and with the prospect of a new governor and a chance to move our state forward instead of constantly playing defense, I’m ready to fight for an Alaska that thrives long into the future. That means high‐quality schools, a healthy environment, sustainable salmon and fish habitats, and a fair, accessible electoral system and government.
Lisa Keller
House District 13
I’m running because I want to continue serving the community that has given me so much. I grew up in this neighborhood and have lived in the same home for 30 years while building a small business, coaching thousands of Alaskans, leading a nonprofit that helps incarcerated women rebuild their lives, and serving as a legislative staffer for Reps. Andy Josephson and Alyse Galvin. Those experiences have taught me that real leadership means listening, building trust, and delivering results. My vision is an Alaska where families can afford to stay, our schools are strong, our economy is sustainable, and future generations inherit clean air, clean water, and healthy salmon habitat. Protecting our natural resources and addressing climate challenges are essential to our economy, way of life, and health. Strong communities also depend on a healthy democracy where every Alaskan has a voice and elected officials earn the public’s trust. I’m committed to practical, bipartisan leadership that delivers results for District 13 and Alaska.
Alyse Galvin
House District 14
I was motivated to initially run for office because Alaska is home, and I believe our state’s best days are ahead if we focus on practical solutions, not partisan division. My vision is an Alaska where families can afford to live and work, children receive a strong education, local businesses thrive, and communities have a real voice in decisions that affect their future. That vision depends on protecting what sustains us: clean water, clean air, a strong economy, and responsible stewardship of our lands and resources. I am motivated to continue to serve, because we have an opportunity to turn a corner following years of poor, shortsighted and antagonistic leadership that has gutted public services and threatens the sustainability of our communities. A strong democracy requires transparency, accountability, and leaders who listen. I will work to bring Alaskans together around solutions that protect our livelihoods, our environment, and our way of life.
Denny Wells
House District 15
I am a proud husband, father, and lifelong Alaskan. I am running to help ensure that Alaskans today and tomorrow have a bright and prosperous future in our great state. We must ensure our students and educators have the support they need to provide a high-quality education – which is key to building an effective workforce, economy, and an engaged informed electorate. Alaska must continue to diversify our energy grid, supporting traditional energy sources while also moving forward on renewable energy projects across Alaska. In-state renewable energy generation will provide reliable affordable energy at stable prices for decades to come while simultaneously reducing our contributions to climate change. Alaska has historically maintained some of the best standards for habitat and wildlife preservation. Recent crashes in salmon and other species have been devastating for Alaskans who rely on them for subsistence, culture, sport, or for their livelihood. The state must do better.
Carolyn Hall
House District 16
I am motivated to run for re-election by my deep-rooted commitment to public service and my love for Alaska. My vision for Alaska includes one where we prioritize the well-being of our environment and our people. Clean water and air are basic human rights, and protecting salmon habitat is essential to both our economy and our culture. And, fundamentally, a strong democracy is the backbone of a thriving community, where every voice is heard, and every citizen is empowered. I am dedicated to creating a sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive Alaska that honors its past and innovates for its future.
Zack Fields
House District 17
I support continued bipartisan coalitions that invest in education and core services supporting kids, safeguard Alaskans’ civil liberties, and keep our communities safe. Bipartisan coalitions are central to protecting democracy, including our non-partisan, merit-based judiciary.
Cliff Groh
House District 18
I am running because I believe Alaska needs practical problem-solvers focused on the issues that affect our daily lives: good schools, reliable public safety, safe roads, and an economy that creates opportunities for working families. Our natural resources – like our water and salmon –make our state special. Protecting them is part of how we ensure opportunity continues to exist for the generations to come.
Genevieve Mina
House District 19
We are incredibly fortunate to live in a beautiful state, be part of welcoming communities, and have the opportunity to participate in a vibrant democracy. I am a homegrown Alaskan who wants to see more Alaskans take care of our home for future generations. A strong democracy needs elected leaders who reflect the interests of everyday people, craft thoughtful policy, and make decisions that uplift neglected voices. As one of the youngest serving members in the Alaska Legislature, I have taken careful attention to how policy impacts people: because my neighbors and the next generation of Alaskans will be alive for those long-term ramifications. I ran because I wanted to empower the community that raised me, and I am running for re-election because there is far more work to do to bolster our state services, care for our lands and waters, and fight for justice.
Andrew Gray
House District 20
I first ran for office in 2022 because of the high cost of housing & the resulting housing insecurity in my district. Since being elected, I have also worked hard on foster care, health care, and combatting the high sexual assault rate in our state. I envision a state where everyone has access to an adequate home where they are safe and secure. That safety and security includes access to clean water and air, a stable environment where wildlife flourish, and a democracy that allows participation by those with less.
Donna Mears
House District 21
I’m grateful to be seeing re-election to the Alaska Legislature. I have been involved in advocacy work my entire career. It started with recycling advocacy for the (then) Alaska Center for the Environment, which evolved into work as Anchorage’s recycling coordinator, and the development of a local recycling industry. My advocacy work then turned to supporting candidates who held my values, and then more engagement on a very local level with my community council. When the opportunity came to run for office, I quickly realized that my career in infrastructure development and advocacy is an ideal foundational experience for the legislature. My vision is that Alaskans have easy access to local food, health care, education, clean energy, voting, and the legislative process. It is imperative that we are smart about upcoming infrastructure development and be thoughtful about projects that are climate resilient and promote environmental justice.
Ted Eischeid
House District 22
I have dedicated my life to public service and find such work meaningful. This work has included natural resource management, education, municipal planning, and previous elected office. I have been motivated by the hostile politics I have observed, and the lack of long term planning by many current politicians. Likewise, I have been inspired by leaders who have put people first in an effort to build a “more perfect union.” My vision for Alaska is one that bolsters the state’s strengths, especially its expansive wilderness, breathtaking beauty, and high quality of life. I seek a high environmental quality coupled with infrastructure investments that not only attract outside tourists, but also attracts and retains people who want to live here, work here, raise families here, and stay here after Retirement. Robust fish and wildlife populations, coexisting in functioning, intact ecosystems, are part of that high quality of life. To maximize Alaska’s future we must plan now to take actions that maintain our ecological assets while mitigating and adapting to the changes that climate change will impose upon our arctic state.
Steven Merritt
House District 25
Alaska is genuinely different, unlike any other state. When my wife and I moved here 30 years ago, we wanted to be a part of a broader community that not only valued individual rights and freedoms, but also recognized a shared ethos of collective responsibility toward all Alaskans. To me, that means applying a respectful, community ethos to all I do with regard to the policies and vision to which legislators are entrusted.
Jeanne Troshynski
House District 26
I have lived in Alaska since 1993. I was a teacher for twenty-five years in the Mat-Su Borough. I feel we have been underrepresented in the Mat-Su Borough for the past eight years. Our valley is made up of many diverse people and we ALL deserve a voice at the table. As a retired teacher, I believe that education is the most important issue our state must address. My vision for Alaska includes assuring we have protected the land and wildlife in this incredible place. We must use our resources wisely. I am a huge supporter of renewable energy. I am a huge proponent for protection of rivers. Rivers in Alaska provide the spawning grounds for salmon, habitat for wildlife, and the rich nutrients that feed our oceans. I have been privileged to volunteer in Nebraska over the past four years where 1.2 million sandhill cranes stop on their migration north. I have learned about the importance of the Platte River in this ecosystem. Without the river the cranes would be lost. We must work together to build the best tomorrow. I am willing to do the work required of this position. I would be honored to do it alongside you.
Kit Kennedy
House District 28
Every Alaskan deserves a livable wage, affordable healthcare, housing, food and energy. Our children need to have food in their tummies so they can focus on learning; they should not have to travel 1 1/2 hours to school. Our salmon need clean waters to spawn, we need to ban gill netting and trawlers. We need to find alternate energy solutions such as heat pumps instead of coal and gas to keep our air clean and save the earth. We need to acknowledge that climate change is affecting our seafood industry and our weather. Private equity is destroying the economy. We need change and I believe I can make a difference by working across the aisle to make it happen.
Sandra Loomis
House District 30
I am running because I believe in Alaska, I believe in the constitution, and I believe in government of, by and for the People. My grandfather fought in the Battle of the Bulge, my husband was in every foreign conflict between 1983-2006. I believe in the ideals of freedom and equal rights and my family has been at the center of defending them. Clean water & air, natural resources and access to these things are held by me to be a basic human right. I’m ready to defend our communities’ access to the things that bring a sense of stability and well-being to daily life: food, healthcare, fair energy prices, and a quality education for our children. These are bare minimum standards that we should meet for the people of Alaska. I believe in responsible development that ensures the health and economic well-being of Alaskans, our families and friends, as well as the water, air, fish, plants, berries and moose we rely on to feed our families and live the sweet Alaska life. I would lead a moratorium on Data Center construction until policy can be formulated to ensure energy costs aren’t passed on to Alaskans and accountability for water usage and clean air are mandated.
Maxine Dibert
House District 31
I am Koyukon Athabascan and a lifelong Fairbanksan, and I spent more than two decades as a teacher in our public schools. In 2022, I answered the call to run for office when many of my neighbors felt like they didn’t have a voice in Juneau. It is the honor of a lifetime to represent the community that raised me, and I remain committed to putting working families first. I am proud to have supported policies that uplift our youth, families, seniors, and everyday Alaskans. My vision is an Alaska where every child has a good education, young people have opportunities to
build their future close to home, and families can afford to live here. That includes addressing high energy costs through an “all of the above” approach that brings more renewable sources online to help bring down costs and mitigate climate impacts.
Pepper McFarland
House District 33
I decided to run for state house to give myself and the citizens of North Pole a better choice, a reasonable choice. The incumbent does not represent my values, and I believe I can represent North Pole better. I believe we need to care for the citizens of Alaska first. I care about people; children, seniors, veterans, families and all of the things that get in the way of them being healthy, happy and prosperous. People are the reason that government exists; it exists to protect people, and therefore, government needs to protect air, water, and resources to best benefit the citizens of Alaska.
Joy Beth Cottle
House District 34
We live in a state where you can pursue Dall Sheep in the Brooks Range, Sockeye on the Russian River, caribou up the Steese, coastal Brown Bear, and Grayling on the Clearwater all in one summer. It’s hard to imagine living anywhere else, and I want to ensure these opportunities are available for future generations as resource development occurs in the state. I believe my experiences, interests, and values align with many residents, particularly in my district. We hunt, fish, burn wood, haul water, and have back-up systems for the inevitable long-term power outages.
We are resilient.
We are strong.
We love our state.
We are Alaskan.
Ashley Carrick
House District 35
It has been my honor to serve as the Representative for House District 35 for the past two terms. I am a fourth-generation, lifelong Alaskan who is dedicated to the long-term health and prosperity of our communities. My campaign platform includes three pillars: promoting Alaska’s economic future, preserving access to education, and protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of Alaskans. As a member of the State House, I have been a stalwart advocate for renewable energy to support our environmental health and lower long-term energy costs, reducing barriers to voting while preserving election integrity, supporting food security, supporting subsistence fishing and making our fisheries sustainable, protecting Alaskans’ privacy, dignity, and bodily autonomy, and much more. I would be honored to earn your support again this election cycle!
Crystal Jones
House District 36
I’m running because I’ve spent almost ten years building a life by hand in Nelchina; hauling my own water, heating with wood, building my own home. That teaches you what actually matters here: clean water, healthy land, and a government that shows up for rural Alaskans instead of forgetting them. My vision is an Alaska where the PFD is fully restored and protected, where Copper River salmon runs stay healthy because we stop industrial trawlers from wasting them as bycatch, and where energy costs stop crushing rural families. Clean water and healthy salmon habitat aren’t separate from a strong economy; they are our economy, our food, and our culture in District 36. A strong democracy means rural voters aren’t an afterthought. I’m not running as a party. I’m running as one of you, fighting for the district I chose to call home.
Elvi Gray-Jackson
Senate District G
After working for the Anchorage Assembly for 17 years, serving alongside 42 Assembly members and assisting countless constituents, I decided to run for public office because public service has always been my passion. I enjoy helping people navigate government, which can often be confusing and challenging. Being able to solve problems, connect people with resources, and advocate on their behalf is the most rewarding part of my work. I am equally passionate about protecting Alaska’s environment. Clean air, clean water, public health, and healthy salmon habitat are essential to our quality of life and our economy. I believe we must educate and engage Alaskans about the importance of preserving these resources for future generations. My vision is to continue serving as a strong advocate for both the people and the environment by promoting responsible policies that protect our natural resources while ensuring a healthy, sustainable future for all Alaskans.
Löki Gale Tobin
Senate District I
As an advocate for public education, I believe every child deserves access to quality early learning. I am committed to protecting our rights to privacy and bodily autonomy, and will challenge unjust laws that affect vulnerable populations. Equity and inclusion in government are essential, and I will fight for voting rights to ensure every voice is heard. I am passionate about renewable energy and protecting our natural environment while supporting workers’ rights and robust public health infrastructure. We must create a comprehensive fiscal plan that avoids regressive taxes and builds trust between law enforcement and our communities. I am also dedicated to fostering diversity among Alaska’s future leaders.
Bill Wielechowski
Senate District K
We are very fortunate to live in Alaska. Years ago I looked around and was not happy with the direction our leaders were taking out state. I wanted to make a change and make a difference in the future of Alaska. I believed then and continue to believe that we can do so much better. I have and will continue to fight to protect our incredible natural resources and an election system that empowers all Alaskans, not just the rich and powerful.
Patricia Chesbro
Senate District M
I am running for office because I believe we are betraying our children with our decisions. The Annie E Casey Foundation ranks our children’s overall well-being as 47th in the nation. Of course, this ranking reflects our education system investments, our (lack of) commitment to children’s health and safety, and even poverty, hunger, and homelessness. The poverty of parents directly affects children’s lives in myriad ways. Further, our continued reluctance to address the significant effects of climate change on Alaskan traditional reliance on natural food sources not only leaves our children slaves to expensive processed foods, but also erodes their cultural values. For too long, we have not examined our every governmental decision on how those choices will help or harm our children. I vow to always ask the question, “What about the children? How will this affect them?” My vision for Alaska builds strong futures for our children.
Peter Bauer
Senate District O
My medical practice at NASA included astronauts on the Space Station, which, for the entire quarter century of its continuous habitation, has been powered by solar arrays. And despite fact-deficient political rhetoric to the contrary, wind turbines are the largest supplier of the Texas grid. Yet, our suburban community endured the smell of oil refineries anytime there was an onshore breeze. That coastline will be scarred for centuries beyond the time when fossil fuels fade from memory. LeeAnn and I chose to retire to a life of fishing, hiking, and flying around the beautiful, wild State of Alaska. However, we have since become alarmed at the social and governmental problems worsening around us. Compelled by conscience to return from retirement to service, I am running for State Senate to do my part to reverse the entirely avoidable decline inflicted upon Alaska and its people by those misusing power.
Past Endorsements
2026
Golden Valley Electric Association Board Elections
Philip Wight — Elected!
Chugach Electric Association Board Elections
Rachel Morse — Elected!
Penny Gage — Elected!
Matanuska Electric Association Board Elections
Connie Fredenberg — Elected!
Daniel Jensen
Anchorage Municipal Election Endorsements
Anchorage Assembly
Sydney Scout, Downtown Anchorage District 1 — Elected!
Anna Brawley, West Anchorage District 3 — Elected!
Janice Park, Midtown Anchorage District 4 — Elected!
George Martinez, East Anchorage Distrcit 5 — Elected!
Anchorage School Board
Rachel Blakeslee, Seat C — Elected!
Paul McDonogh, Seat D — Elected!
2025
2024
2023