Gregg Brelsford Joins Alaska Governor Race

0:00It's March 25th. Welcome to Anchorage News today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story. Anchorage attorney Greg Brelsford just became the 18th candidate jumping into Alaska's wide open governor's race. At 75 years old, he's a former city attorney and manager with experience in places like Dillingham and Bristol Bayboro. Running as an independent, he brings a fresh face to the mix since he's never held elected office before. Governor Mike Dunleavy can't seek another term, which has already drawn a huge field of contenders across party lines. Before Brelsford's announcement, there were 12 Republicans, three Democrats, and two nonpartisan hopefuls, making this one of the most packed, races in recent memory. Brelsford's past includes unsuccessful bids for the U.S. House in 2022 and the Alaska House back in 1994. He's zeroing in on education as his biggest focus, pointing to challenges facing schools and teachers under current leadership.

1:00Candidates have until June 1st to file for the August primary where Alaska's unique system puts everyone on the same ballot. The top four finishers, no matter their party, move on to the general election in November. With so many names in the hat from former officials to local leaders, the primary could shake things up big time as voters narrow it down. Keep an eye on how this all plays out.