MSB addresses political violence, adds statement to election brochure

During the September 16 Matanuska-Susitna Borough (MSB) meeting, Assembly member Maxwell Sumner brought forward an amendment to the 2026 MSB election pamphlet set to be released shortly, addressing political violence in the wake of the murder of political activist Charlie Kirk, though Sumner’s original statement does not mention him specifically.

Sumner’s statement reads:

“As we prepare for civic participation and to exercise our democratic rights during this election season, we pause to honor those who have paid the ultimate price in defense of free speech and liberty. Throughout the history of democracy, there are individuals who have stood for the right to speak freely, to challenge authority, to gather peacefully and to live by conscience. Some have done so in public squares, on campuses, in protests during rallies in legislatures or in media, and too many have met in violence for that struggle. Their sacrifice is not in vain.

“Freedom of expression is the cornerstone of democracy, as a right our founding fathers placed first among their amendments, as the foundation on which we build honest discourse, responsible governance and meaningful community. In honoring those who have fallen, regardless of background, belief or political persuasion, we reaffirm our commitment to civil dialogue, peaceful engagement and the right of every citizen to speak their truth without fear of reprisal.

“In the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, where liberty is a cherished value, we are reminded that democracy does not take care of itself -- it must be protected, nurtured and renewed. The integrity of our elections, the accountability of our elected officials and the resilience of our communities all depend on our willingness to stand up for these freedoms.

“Let us remember with reverence the men and women who have given their lives for liberty, and let us honor them not only in words, but through our actions, in voting our principles and listening with patience and speaking with respect and in standing firm for the rights of others, even when we disagree. Freedom continues only when we defend it. May their courage serve to inspire ours.”

When speaking to his amendment, Sumner said that while he had a “deep, visceral reaction to recent events in our nation,” and felt that in light of the upcoming elections, the Borough should recognize that no matter what political beliefs people hold, violence is not the answer.

“I purposely did not make this partisan.”

“I think what we are trying to say as a body is it’s (violence) never the right thing,” said Assembly member Stephanie Nowers, acknowledging the attempt at President Donald Trump and other political figures lose their lives for no other reason than speaking up. “I really appreciate what Max (Sumner) put together…because the heart is to say as a body that no matter what’s happening on social media, this body in this Mat-Su Borough that we love say that this is not acceptable and this is not who we are.”

Assembly member Dmitri Fonov added a secondary amendment to the statement recognizing in memoriam Charlie Kirk, saying if it wasn’t for Kirk, the assembly would not be having the discussion nor the statement, while Nowers added her own amendment to include, “and other victims of political violence.”

The secondary amendment passed with members Fonov, Ron Bernier, and Sumner opposing it. Bernier added another amendment to add “In God we Trust” to the end of the statement, which passed unanimously.

Sumner later objected to his own amendment after members added Kirk into his statement, telling the assembly that there are a lot of victims of political violence and believed Kirk himself would not want his name on the statement. “I think he’d want to respect everyone else, too.”

The measure passed, with Assembly member Tim Hale and Sumner opposing.

Victor Fonov, brother to Assembly member Fonov called in to thank his brother and others for getting to honor Kirk.

“Coming to America, we came from a place where you don’t have free speech, and for me Charlie Kirk’s death was not in vain.”

Patty Fischer thanked Sumner for his comments about political violence during public comments, adding, “There’s so many other victims of political violence and hate speech today that we all, everyone in society must stand up and condemn it when they see it. There’s no place whatsoever in our democracy.”