Local Issues Influence Alaska Governor's Race Amid Anti-Trump Sentiment

In Alaska, a predominantly Republican state, local issues such as education and affordability are contributing to the support for 37-year-old Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins. In July, Kreiss-Tomkins traveled for four days and covered 450 miles (725 km) on the Yukon River in a 24-foot Alweld skiff, which is designed for shallow waters. His journey began in Koyukon Athabascan territory and included stops in Indigenous Deg Hit’an communities like Anvik, ultimately reaching Yup’ik villages such as Russian Mission and Pilot Station. During this trip, he visited 11 villages, many of which are only accessible by water or small plane, and most of which have populations under 300 residents. Few villagers could recall the last time they had seen a candidate for governor, regardless of party affiliation.