Former Senate minority leader Tom Begich enters Alaska Governor’s race

While the field of Republican candidates for Alaska Governor grows, a Democrat has entered the race as Tom Begich, former Senate Minority Leader, has entered the race, releasing a statement on social media.

“Alaska has incredible potential, and it’s time we build on our strengths together. I’m running for Governor of Alaska to lead with vision, listen to our diverse communities, and create opportunities for every Alaskan,” Begich wrote on social media. “I believe in a future where hope, unity, and shared values guide our growth. Together, we can strengthen our economy, empower our teachers, parents, and students, and once again bring together the unique spirit of Alaska.”

Begich most recently served in the Senate from 2017–22, representing Anchorage and becoming the minority leader in 2019. The Begich name is familiar to most in Alaska. Tom is the son of Nick Begich Sr., a Democrat who served as Representative in the U.S. House of Representatives, and his brother Mark, also a Democrat served in the U.S. Senate, while his nephew Nick is currently serving as Alaska’s only representative, a Republican elected to Congress last year.

While serving in the State Senate, Begich passed major reforms that have improved public education, including universal voluntary pre-K. “I believe we can turn Alaska around. We can bring hope and opportunity back to our state. We can unify our cultures and communities. Together, we can build our future around the shared values that make Alaska unique.”

Currently, there are eight Republicans in the governor’s race, including Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom, Matanuska-Susitna Borough Mayor Edna DeVries, Palmer state Senator Shelley Hughes, Anchorage business owner Bernadette Wilson, Anchorage podiatrist Matt Heilala, former Revenue Commissioner Adam Crum, Angoon resident James Parkin, and former state Senator Click Bishop.

Plans for Begich’s listening tour and formal announcement of his candidacy will be announced later this week.