Another Tuesday brings another round of primaries. This week, it’s primaries in Wyoming and Alaska (which features a special election, as well). Here’s what to keep an eye on per DDHQ:
Alaska
We get double the fun in Alaska as there’s a special election to fill the remainder of the term for Republican Don Young, who died in March. Alaska now has Ranked Choice Voting. The initial contest, held in June, narrowed down the candidates to only four: Sarah Palin, former governor, Nick Begich III (whose dad was the incumbent), Al Gross (who ran in 2020 for U.S. Senate), and Mary Peltola. Gross has since pulled out of the race. It is possible that the final outcome will not be known until all votes are received (15 days later depending on how close it was).
Begich, Palin and Peltola, together with 19 other candidates, are competing for the same primary seat. For the next term, the top four contestants will face each other in November.
In the GOP Senate race, it’s Trump-endorsed Kelly Tshibaka versus incumbent Senator Lisa Murkowski, who, of course, voted to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial. Both candidates may be able to advance to November due this being a Ranked Choice/top 4 scenario.
In the Governor’s race, Republican incumbent Mike Dunleavy faces several challengers. Per Alaska Public Media:
Four years ago Mike Dunleavy was the conservative candidate running for Governor. He ran far to the left of the incumbent. Dunleavy now has two highly-funded candidates to his right as he fights for reelection: Wasilla Rep. Christopher Kurka (Kenai Peninsula Borough mayor Charlie Pierce).
Next week’s primary election is going to pare the list of 10 gubernatorial candidates to four, and it’s unlikely that Kurka and Pierce can both survive. They are both trying to differentiate themselves from Dunleavy and each other based on their performance and dedication.
Wyoming
Overview: Polls close on March 7, at 7:00 PM MST. The winners are the first-past each post.
Wyoming is the focus of all attention when it comes down to the at-large Republican primaries between Harriet Hageman and Liz Cheney. According to polls, Hageman has a clear advantage. This is likely due to good reason. However, those in the know advise not to assume anything is true. We all know this. ShouldHave an answer for Tuesday night?
Republican incumbent Governor Mark Gordon also seeks reelection.
For live results, see below. RedState will have the most up-to-date coverage through Wednesday. (Click the “Change Race” option just above each map to toggle between the races.)
ALASKA
WYOMING