Dunleavy makes his intent to run for governor official

WASILLA — State Sen. Mike Dunleavy (R-Wasilla) announced Monday that he plans to run for governor next year.

According to a press release, Dunleavy made it official by filing intent to run paperwork with the Alaska Public Offices Commission on Monday, and will look to take on incumbent independent Gov. Bill Walker, who has yet to announce whether he is seeking another term.

According to the release, Dunleavy has made defense of the Permanent Dividend Fund his top priority, especially after Walker halved the October payout in an effort to reduce the state’s multi-billion dollar budget deficit.

Dunleavy also made headlines in April defying the Republican Party line in the Senate by voting against a budget bill agreed upon by his majority party, thus removing him from the caucus.

Dunleavy was elected to his last Senate term in 2014, meaning his term in the Senate will also be expiring in 2018.