Alaska Governor Candidates Gather Tonight for Forum Hosted by AVCP

With the 2026 Alaska gubernatorial race heating up, a critical candidate forum is taking place tonight, bringing together seven of the 17 contenders to discuss their visions for the state's future. As voters begin to focus on the crowded field, this forum offers a vital opportunity to hear directly from candidates on key issues ranging from veteran issues to the economy and resource development to the future of the Permanent Fund dividend.

The Alaska Veteran Community Partnership (AVCP), a statewide coalition that connects veteran serving organizations, government partners, businesses, and community leaders to strengthen support for veterans, their families, and caregivers, will host the event tonight at the Glenn Massey Theater at the Mat-Su College in Palmer.

“This forum will allow veteran voices to be heard during the election,” says Jessy Lakin, Director of Operations for Battle Dawgs, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans heal through outdoor recreation, wellness, mentorship, and leadership. Alaska is known for having the most veterans per capita, and an estimated 80% of the state’s population is connected to veterans. “They are a valuable part of our communities, but their voices don’t always get heard.”

The bipartisan forum will feature seven of the 17 gubernatorial candidates, including Republicans Bernadette Wilson, Adam Crum, Dave Bronson, Treg Taylor, Matt Heilala, Shelley Hughes, and Tom Begich the only Democrat scheduled to appear. Lakin wished more democrats had signed up to appear. “Veteran issues aren’t one party. They affect all voters from all walks of life on both sides of the aisle.”

While the event is sponsored by the AVCP, Lakin says that everyone is welcomed. Doors open at 4:00 p.m. for a meet and greet with the candidates, with the forum beginning at 5:00 p.m. the event is free and open to the public.

If residents are unable to attend in-person, the event will be livestreamed on Facebook. Simply search ‘Alaska Governor Candidate Forum’ to find links to the forum.