ALASKA — Voters in Alaska will soon narrow down a competitive field of candidates for the coveted U.S. House seat. The primary election on Tuesday will reduce the current list of 12 candidates to just four, setting the stage for the general election.
In Alaska’s unique primary system, all candidates appear on the same ballot, regardless of party affiliation. The top four candidates who receive the most votes will progress to the general election, where voters can rank their preferred choices.
This highly contested seat has been a focal point for both major political parties, previously held by Republicans for decades until the passing of Rep. Don Young in 2022.
Among the candidates vying for this position, Rep. Mary Peltola stands out as a prominent Democrat. She first secured this seat in a special election last year. The Republican contenders include Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom and Nick Begich, who shares a name with his late grandfather, a Democratic congressman who disappeared in 1972.
Funding reports from the Federal Election Commission indicate that no other candidates have reported significant campaign contributions. The ballot also features additional Republicans, another Democrat, and several independents.
Dahlstrom has gained backing from influential Republican figures, including former President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Begich has also received endorsements from notable members of the House Freedom Caucus.
Peltola became a significant player in Alaska’s political landscape after a successful bid against well-known names like Sarah Palin in the 2022 special election, securing 37% of the vote amidst a crowded primary that summer.
While many state legislative races in Alaska are uncontested due to fewer than four candidates, certain districts, like the one featuring Republican incumbent Kelly Merrick, have generated significant competition. Merrick has raised over $70,000 while facing Republican challenger Jared Goecker.
On Tuesday, voters can expect to make their voices heard as polling concludes at 1 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, with most polling stations closing at midnight EDT. Registered voters can partake in Alaska’s “Top 4” primary, an inclusive system that encourages broad participation.
Initial election results will reflect in-person votes cast on Election Day, with absentee ballots counted in the days following. Unlike most states, Alaska’s results are initially presented as statewide totals, with detailed district results provided later.
Automatic recounts are triggered in the event of ties, ensuring electoral accuracy. As of July 3, nearly 604,000 registered voters reside in Alaska, highlighting a diverse electorate with 12% identifying as Democrats, 24% as Republicans, and 59% as independents or unaffiliated voters.
The upcoming election marks a pivotal moment, with just 77 days remaining until the general election in November.
