Dahlstrom drops out of race for Representative

Alaska Lt. Governor Nancy Dahlstrom announced Friday morning that she has dropped out of the race for the state’s only seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“At this time, the best thing I can do to see that goal realized is to withdraw my name from the general election ballot and end my campaign,” she wrote in a statement Friday.

During the primary on August 20, Dahlstrom received just under 20% of the vote, while Nick Begich, who is also running for Representative, came in with 27% of the votes cast. Meanwhile, incumbent Mary Sattler Peltola received over 50% of the votes.

In her announcement, Dahlstrom thanked Alaskans for believing in her and fighting alongside her during her campaign.

“I want to thank all those who supported my campaign throughout this process. I want to thank Governor Dunleavy for realizing and focusing on the endless potential of Alaska.” She also thanked former President Donald Trump for his endorsement, along with other members of the House of Representatives for their commitment not only to the country, but also to Alaska’s role in fulfilling the American dream.

Dahlstrom said that she entered the race because she believes that Representative Peltola, who was elected in 2022, “certainly isn’t up to the challenge.”

Dahlstrom and Begich were among the most high profile names challenging Peltola in the primary. Under Alaska’s ranked choice voting system, voters select one candidate, no matter their party preference, with the top four candidates receiving the most votes advancing to the general election.