Gubernatorial Candidate Communication Survey

As the state's leading public affairs and strategic communications firm, we asked each candidate the same series of questions about transparency, media relations, crisis communications, public engagement and the role of a governor's communications office. Their responses are presented below.

About this survey

This survey was sent to candidates whose campaigns have demonstrated significant organizational capacity, fundraising, and public support.
Every candidate who received the survey was asked the same series of questions.
Responses are published subject to minor editorial corrections for typographical/spelling accuracy.
Candidates who received the survey but did not respond are noted below.
- Dave Bronson
- Treg Taylor
- Bernadette Wilson

Download each candidate’s response:

How do you view the role of the press in a healthy democracy, and what does that mean for how you'll interact with journalists as governor?

The press and journalists are an essential element of a healthy democracy, and they are under threat. The First Amendment has been diminished at the federal and even state levels. As Governor, I will act much as I have all my life – whether in public office or outside of it: I will be open and accessible, regardless of the issue. As the Publisher of POL – a Journal of Policy and Politics from 1993 to 1998, which won multiple Alaska Press Club Awards, I was proud to be a member of the Alaska press corps. I understand the difficulty of getting a story when those in power don’t reach out or obfuscate the truth. As a public official, I always remained open to the press. As a candidate, I am quick to respond to press inquiries. As Governor, I will do the same.
I believe the press plays an essential role in a healthy democracy. I’m committed to an open and transparent relationship with the media so Alaskans know how our administration is working for them and why. If I find myself annoyed as Governor by seemingly pesky questions from the media, I think that is a good thing for Alaskans, for transparency, and for a healthy democracy.
A free press is essential to a healthy democracy, and the public deserves transparency and honest answers from its government. As governor, I'll answer tough questions, tell the truth, and let my record speak for itself. We won't always agree, but that's part of democracy. My focus won't be on managing headlines — it will be on solving problems and delivering results for the people of Alaska.
I view the press as the fourth estate. A free and robust press is vital to governance. I will engage the press often so that the public has more access to information.
Without a free press there is no accountability for government action. Accountability is what makes a democracy healthy. For Alaska, the press plays an essential role in disseminating critical information to Alaskans in diverse regions of this vast state.
A free and independent press is essential to a healthy democracy. Journalists play an important role in asking difficult questions, informing the public, and helping hold the government accountable. As governor, I will treat the press as a partner in public transparency — not an obstacle to manage. Alaskans deserve timely, accurate information about decisions that affect their lives, and that means maintaining open lines of communication with reporters across the state. My administration will prioritize responsiveness, accessibility, and direct engagement with media outlets of all sizes.
I want journalists to report in a balanced fashion and strive to be unbiased - the way they should be in a healthy democracy (in our case, constitutional republic) - but that rarely is the case. The public needs accurate reporting, and the press should provide it. I will give more time to those who are fair. I will be more apt to provide written comments to those who aren't.
Free press.
The role of the press in a healthy democracy is vital: it acts as a watchdog, informing citizens and holding power accountable. Yet it is not infallible and must itself be held to standards of fairness and accuracy. As governor, I will: Hold regular on-the-record press conferences and respond promptly to legitimate questions and records requests. Commit to maximum transparency without playing access games. Correct the record when stories contain errors or clear bias. Apply the same accountability to my own party as to the opposition no favorites.
Good journalism strengthens democracy. I will respect honest reporting while rejecting the idea that the press has special moral authority over policy. The standard is simple: facts over narrative, results over party. The people deserve both an open government and a responsible press.

How frequently will you hold open press conferences — ones where any credentialed journalist may attend and ask questions?

I haven’t decided yet.
I haven’t decided yet.
Twice a month.
Weekly.
Twice a month.
Weekly.
Weekly — schedule would require some flexibility.
As events warrant.
As events warrant.

Describe any circumstances under which you would refuse to take press questions or limit media access to you personally.

While I can’t think of any areas offhand where I would limit answers or refuse to take questions, I think there is a line between one’s personal and professional life that should be respected. However, when the personal veers into the professional, it is fair for the press to question those actions, and it is essential that a Governor respond to them in the interest of public integrity and the truth.
The exceptions should be narrow: active litigation, personnel matters, and genuine security or safety concerns. Beyond those, the default is to answer the question.
My default is to take questions. Alaskans deserve a governor who is accessible and accountable. There are times when I may delay answering — for example, during an active emergency when public safety comes first, or when discussing matters involving confidential personnel, ongoing law enforcement investigations, or attorney-client privilege. In those cases, I'll explain why I can't answer and provide information as soon as I can. My goal is simple: be available, be transparent, and earn the public's trust through honesty and results.
None.
While I have never shied from answering tough questions, I recognize there are circumstances where I might be required to limit media access. These areas include: personnel matters, pending litigation, and matters protected by non-disclosure or similar agreements.
My default position is openness and availability. There may be limited circumstances where access is temporarily restricted — active emergency response situations, ongoing litigation, personnel matters, privacy protections, or issues involving public safety or confidential information protected by law. But outside of those situations, I believe elected officials should answer questions and explain decisions.
Would limit if information is confidential, uncertain, or would jeopardize a positive outcome. Would limit access if a safety issue.
None.
I will not refuse press questions or limit media access to me personally as a matter of routine or political convenience. The only narrow circumstances under which I would limit access are: Ongoing law enforcement investigations or active litigation where answering could compromise public safety or due process. Immediate threats to public safety or national security (e.g., during an unfolding emergency). Personal medical emergencies or family crises.
Even in those rare cases, my office would provide timely written statements and briefings to keep the public informed. Outside of these exceptions, I will take questions directly and on-the-record. Access will never be used as a reward for favorable coverage or punishment for tough questions. Accountability applies to everyone, including the governor.

Alaska's geography means many communities have no nearby daily newspaper or TV station. How will you ensure reporters in rural Alaska have equivalent access to your administration?

All press conferences and briefings will be open to all members of the press corps for questions – and the public for viewing – regardless of where they are located. This process has worked well with local and state administrations, and I would work to improve that access. As I have done in this campaign, I will also sit down with the press when visiting our communities, wherever a press outlet is located. Unlike the current Administration, I will fully fund public radio, which is an essential element of rural news service.
I represented Southeast Alaska for a decade, so I know a reporter in Sitka or Bethel can't just walk down a capitol hallway. My administration will be as accessible to The Nome Nugget or The Delta Discovery as any statewide outlet with an office in Juneau. When I travel the state — which I intend to do often — I’ll always make an effort to interview with local journalists. It’s a standard procedure on our campaign. As of mid-July, I’ve spoken with over a dozen radio stations including KYUK (Bethel), KIYU (Galena), KMXT (Kodiak), KBRW (Utqiagvik), KBBI (Homer), KCAW (Sitka), KDLG (Dillingham), KFSK (Petersburg), KRBD (Ketchikan), KSRM (Soldotna), KSTK (Wrangell), and countless newspapers.
Every Alaskan deserves access to their government, no matter where they live. That means reporters serving rural communities should have the same opportunity to ask questions and hold my administration accountable as those in Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau. My administration will make use of video press conferences, virtual interviews, and regular statewide media availability so geography isn't a barrier to access. And when I'm traveling in rural Alaska, I'll make a point of speaking with local media because those outlets know their communities better than anyone. A governor serves the entire state, and our communications should reflect that.
I will ensure Zoom, Teams or other communication platforms are used for all meetings and that they are televised.
Growing up in Delta Junction I know first-hand what it’s like to rely on regional media for statewide news. I want to be sure that rural reporters have the same access to the information as urban media outlets. This is particularly important when our state capital is off the road system and not easily accessed by the rest of the state. In my previous administration, we developed relationships with regional media and included all on media advisories. Each media availability included a call-in number to ensure that location was not a barrier to information access. I will continue to utilize technology to minimize the physical distance between news media and the governor’s office.
Geography should not determine access to the government. My administration will hold regular virtual press briefings, maintain statewide media distribution lists, provide remote participation options for press conferences, and ensure materials are distributed digitally and promptly. We will proactively engage with rural newspapers, radio stations, Indigenous media organizations, and community outlets so Alaskans in every region have access to information.
Reporters would have the ability to participate virtually.
Social media.
I will ensure rural Alaska reporters have equal access by: Holding virtual/hybrid press conferences so any credentialed reporter statewide can participate and ask questions, providing the same timely responses to questions and records requests for all media, regardless of location, and traveling regularly to rural communities for in-person events.
Distance will not determine access. Every Alaskan deserves equal accountability from their governor.

Where do you personally get your news? Please name your most-relied-upon sources for Alaska news and for national and international news — including print, broadcast, online, and any podcasts or newsletters you read regularly.

APRN, along with local public radio affiliates, the Anchorage Daily News, and the Alaska Beacon for Alaska news; BBC, The Guardian, various blogs, and, it’s true, I still subscribe to several science, current affairs, and history publications and online services, for national and international news.
I have personal subscriptions to the Sitka Sentinel, Anchorage Daily News, Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and I am a recurring donor/member for KCAW Raven Radio and Alaska Public Media. I get my news from these sources and many more.
The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Financial Times, Fox News, Anchorage Daily News, Alaska’s News Source, FaceBook, and The Daily Wire.
Anchorage Daily News, Alaska Beacon, BBC, The Wall Street Journal, The Alaska Landmine and Northern Journal, Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Juneau Empire and The Nome Nugget.
Alaska is lucky to have a number of talented reporters and media outlets. I believe that radio is the most powerful tool to reach Alaskans across the state. For this reason, I have always appreciated Alaska Public Media and NPR, which supports affiliate stations throughout the state.
For Alaska news, I regularly follow statewide newspapers, local radio, television reporting, community publications, public meetings, and direct conversations with Alaskans. I value hearing multiple perspectives and regional viewpoints. For national and international news, I read across print and digital outlets, monitor broadcast coverage, and follow policy reporting and issue-based newsletters to stay informed. I believe leaders should seek a broad range of sources rather than relying on a single outlet.
Anchorage Daily News, Alaska Beacon, Juneau Empire, Juneau Independent, Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Alaska Political Report, The Alaska Landmine, Alaska Story, Must Read Alaska, Alaska Public Media, Twitter, Travis/Buxton Show, Greg Gutfeld, and The Wall Street Journal.
Mat-Su Sentinel, Must Read Alaska, Alaska Story, The Alaska Landmine, and social media.
National and International News: The Wall Street Journal, Fox Business, NBCNews, Fox News, and X.
State or Local News: Anchorage Daily News, Alaska’s News Source, X , Alaska Public Media, The Alaska Landmine, and Alaska Story.
PodCast: All-In Podcast, Moonshots with Peter Diamandis, Mario Nawfal, The Joe Rogan Experience, and Lex Fridman.

How will you determine who is included on your official media distribution list?

My administration's media distribution lists will be inclusive and open to the public, allowing everyone to access the information we produce if they so choose. If a person or organization regularly produces original news reporting for the public, whether in print, broadcast, or online, they belong on the list. I will not remove or exclude an outlet based on its coverage or editorial perspective. During press conferences, questions would be limited to members of the press corps, as administrations have done in the past.
We include all Alaska-based media outlets and any others who ask. We aim to maintain the most exhaustive list in the state.
Our media distribution list will be based on objective criteria, not political viewpoints. If a legitimate news organization or working journalist regularly covers Alaska government and requests to be included, they'll be added. My administration won't pick favorites based on whether coverage is positive or negative. The goal is to provide timely, accurate information as broadly as possible so Alaskans can stay informed through the outlets they trust.
I will ask press to apply and lean toward being as inclusive as I can, recognizing that more reporting is better for the public and that our definition of media is always evolving.
Our previous administration allowed anyone to join our official media distribution list, regardless of media affiliation.
Our media list will be broad and inclusive. Any legitimate news organization, working journalist, independent outlet, podcast, community publication, or digital publication that regularly reports news and requests inclusion should have access. Coverage should not determine access.
Will set criteria such as established history, regular news content production and public platform, etc.
Everyone.
The official media distribution list is open to any credentialed journalist or legitimate Alaska news outlet (urban or rural) that regularly reports news. Inclusion is based on credentials and coverage, not on opinions, past stories, or favoritism. Everyone on the list gets equal access to releases and briefings.

Will you grant interviews to podcasters, independent journalists, bloggers, and online-only outlets on the same basis as legacy media outlets? Please explain your approach.

Again, on a case-by-case basis and based on availability, I see no reason to refuse interviews if requested. “Legacy Media” is a changing term. In this campaign, I have been interviewed by blogs – national and local - and legacy sites (ABC, NYT), as well as local news and news services (ADN, the Alaska Beacon, Northern Journal, and others). The media environment is changing around the country, the world, and in our state. I will endeavor to meet the media where it is emerging. Each of these felt legitimate to me, though some were inherently biased. As long as they and I acknowledged that, it was fine.
Yes. We want Alaskans to hear from our campaign everywhere they get their news. I’ve been a guest on many of such outlets already during the campaign. We’re looking to do as many as time permits.
Yes. Alaskans get their news from many different places today, and my job is to communicate with them wherever they are. I'll consider interview requests based on whether an outlet is reaching and informing Alaskans — not whether it's a traditional newspaper, television station, podcast, or online publication. My goal is to be accessible to a wide range of media while making sure all Alaskans have access to accurate information about their government.
Yes. Many Alaskans and Americans take in their news this way including me. I don’t see a distinction between legacy media and online outlets if they reach the public.
With social media today, Alaskans are receiving information on a variety of platforms and sources. If time and resources allow, I will endeavor to engage anyone who is using their platform to transmit relevant and accurate information to Alaskans.
Yes. Alaskans consume information in many different ways, and the government should communicate where people are. We will evaluate interview requests based on audience reach, public interest, scheduling, and professionalism — not whether an outlet is traditional or digital.
Yes, if they meet the same criteria such as established history, regular news production, public platform, etc.
Yes, the same.
I will grant interviews to podcasters, independent journalists, bloggers, and online-only outlets on the same basis as legacy media. Approach: All requests will be considered based on audience reach, relevance to Alaskans, and scheduling, not on the size or type of outlet. Credentialed reporters from any platform get equal opportunity. No favoritism toward traditional media or punishment for independent voices.
The standard is simple: if you report Alaska news fairly and reach Alaskans, you get fair access. My goal is maximum transparency, not protecting old gatekeepers.

Which social media platforms will your administration actively maintain? Check all that apply.

Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, Threads and BlueSky.
Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, TikTok and LinkedIn.
Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, Threads, LinkedIn, and NextDoor or community platforms.
Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, Threads and BlueSky.
Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, Threads, BlueSky, LinkedIn, and NextDoor or community platforms.
Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube.
Not sure about others listed above, but perhaps.
All of them.
Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn. This is certainly subject to change depending on various parameters.

Who will write and manage your social media posts?

Combination of yourself and staff.
Combination of yourself and staff.
Primarily staff, but I will give ideas or dictate certain items to get out.
Combination of yourself and staff.
Combination of yourself and staff.
Combination of yourself and staff.
Combination of yourself and staff.
Combination of yourself and staff.
Combination of yourself and staff.

Will AI-generated or AI-assisted content be used on your social pages?

No.
Unsure at this time.
Unsure at this time.
Yes.
Unsure at this time.
No.
No — may use it on occasion but if I do, it would be the exception rather than the rule.
Unsure at this time.
Yes.

Will you ever block or mute members of the public on government-run social accounts, and if so, under what conditions?

Generally, no, because people should be able to share their viewpoints, even if they are fundamentally different than the issue. But there are lines to be drawn. For example, while I was elected to the State Senate, I made it clear that posts using hate language or language that bullied other users would not be tolerated. I am not going to host such language. Further, if my office determines with evidence that a bot, rather than a real human being, is posting, I would remove those comments.
No — not for criticism, disagreement, or unflattering opinions. A government account is a public forum. The only things that we may consider taking down are unlawful content, threats, harassment, consequential falsehoods, or spam. We won’t mute people for viewpoints.
Government social media accounts are for serving the public, not curating political conversations. People should be free to disagree with me or criticize my administration. The only time someone would be blocked or restricted is for reasons unrelated to their viewpoint — such as spam, impersonation, threats of violence, unlawful content, or behavior that prevents others from using the platform. Our standard will be to protect open public dialogue while maintaining a safe and functional forum for everyone.
I suppose if there was persistent hate speech that threatened someone repeatedly or if we identified bots that threatened the authentic conversation underway. It is unlikely though.
I doubt it.
Government accounts should remain open forums for public engagement. We would only limit participation in narrow circumstances consistent with law and platform policies, such as threats, spam, illegal content, impersonation, or harassment that prevents productive public use.
If you use threatening or vulgar language.
No blocking.
I will not block or mute anyone simply for criticism, tough questions, or opposing views. Government social accounts belong to the public, not the governor. Blocking or muting will be limited to: direct threats of violence or harm, clear harassment or targeted abuse of staff, spam, bots, or repeated off-topic flooding that prevents real engagement.
Any blocks will be documented, applied consistently, and reviewed periodically. Viewpoint discrimination will never be tolerated. Alaskans have a right to speak to their government, even critically. I expect robust debate, not an echo chamber.

Will your administration publish a public-facing calendar of the governor's official schedule? If so, with what level of detail?

I don’t know the complete answer to this. I have no reason to avoid publishing a schedule of public events. I think the details would be sufficient to convey the purpose of those meetings or events. I would not feel compelled to publish personal matters in detail – except to the extent they might overlap with professional duties.
Yes. Our administration will publish my public events schedule.
This will be determined by working with security personnel.
Yes I will. I did while serving in the House and Senate.
Yes - we will continue the tradition of making cabinet members and the governor’s calendars available to the public. The calendars will include a general description of meetings, attendees, and the date the meeting took place.
Yes. My administration will publish a regular public calendar that includes official meetings, public appearances, travel, and major events while balancing security considerations and constituent privacy where necessary.
Portions, yes. If it pertains to personal matters, security, or would jeopardize safety, for example, no.
Unknown.
Yes. We will publish a public calendar of the governor’s official schedule on the state website, updated daily. It will list meetings, events, travel, and public appearances with basic details. Private or family time will be noted simply as such. Maximum transparency, no secret schedule.

Alaska is home to speakers of many languages beyond English. How will your administration communicate with residents who are not fluent in English, and what resources will you commit to making official information accessible across language communities (beyond what may be required by law)?

In my work before joining the State Senate and in the Senate (where I represented arguably the most diverse state senate district in the nation with over 100 languages spoken), I have always advocated for having translation services available. Though there may be cultural and other barriers to comprehensive and accurate translation, I think it is important for us to provide access to public information beyond the extent provided by state and federal law. This will mean a greater emphasis on translation services and the availability of these translations online at the very least.
Essential public information should reach all Alaskans, including those who aren’t fluent in English. I'll work with tribes, Alaska Native language experts, and community organizations to make critical information on public safety, health, benefits, emergencies, and more available in Alaska Native languages and other languages spoken across the state. I'll prioritize it in emergencies, when a delay in someone's own language can cost lives. I’ve worked on this issue dating back to my service as a Representative, when I sponsored the bill that made Alaska’s 20 Native languages official languages of our state alongside English.
Current law requires broad availability of public material.
The Division of Elections has a great model I would build on. I would seek bilingual team members to assist. I would also consider sight and hearing impaired Alaskans.
With online translations becoming easier to access, I will support making the State of Alaska’s website translatable to a variety of languages, including indigenous languages.
Government information should be understandable and accessible. My administration will strengthen translation and interpretation resources for major public announcements, emergency communications, and key public materials, while working with community organizations and local leaders to improve outreach across Alaska's language communities.
Will use or refer the public to AI translation tools. Will use translators when possible.
To be determined.
We will communicate in clear, simple English as our primary language. My administration will fully meet all legal obligations for language access and remain consistent with the current administration’s policy on this topic. We will continue providing necessary translations and interpretation for key public information and services, especially in emergencies. To make this more efficient and timely, we will use AI translation tools to support and speed up accurate communication across languages while always having human review for important documents. Every Alaskan will have access to important government information in a way they can understand.

Beyond public comment periods required by law, what mechanisms will you create for ordinary Alaskans to share their views on policy decisions your administration is considering?

This is an interesting question. Most public comment opportunities are poorly advertised with little outreach. I would seek a more comprehensive, proactive approach, building off the press outlets described earlier in this questionnaire and on the availability of the translation services described above. Government decisions should not be made in the shadows or in obscurity. I will also offer opportunities for feedback through social media and designate an outreach constituent person in the Governor’s office as part of the Governor’s team to ensure we encourage communication to the Administration.
Our administration will keep communication channels open to the public outside of official comment periods. There will be accessible ways to reach the governor's office by phone, mail, and online. I’ll also spend time in person around the state, so Alaskans can weigh in face-to-face while decisions are still being made.
Engaging with Alaskans or notifying them through Governor communication channels.
I want more open forums on subject areas and have been discussing this on the campaign trail. I involved the public in crafting energy and Arctic policy in community interest holder groups that traveled the state and held open forums. I will initiate a policy to allow Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn as official ways to receive POM’s. We need to catch up and keep up. More public feedback equals better governance.
Previously when the draft fiscal plan was ready, our fiscal team gave over 500 public presentations across the state to explain the fiscal plan and receive public input. We would continue holding town hall meetings on appropriate policy decisions.
We will expand opportunities through statewide listening sessions, digital feedback tools, community advisory groups, direct outreach events, surveys, and regular engagement with stakeholders. Our federal delegation does good work touching base with constituents via virtual town halls – we would love to do more of that. Good policy starts with listening.
Will request input via online forms, email, via video and posts on social media, via town halls.
Public comment open to everyone.
Beyond required public comment periods, I will create these simple ways for everyday Alaskans to share their views:
Regular town halls (in-person and virtual). Easy online feedback form. Consider a weekly constituent voicemail line. Regional listening sessions across the state.
All input will be reviewed and considered. Every Alaskan’s voice will have a direct path to my office.

Will you hold regular town halls or other in-person events in communities across the state — including remote communities? Describe any specific plans, including approximate frequency and geographic reach.

Yes, though I have no specific plans outlined to date, as I am not elected yet. I would build on the listening model I employed from October to now – holding community meet-and-greets where no question is off limits – from Craig to Bethel and the communities in between. These events were often held in community centers, churches, libraries, and even in people’s homes. This practice has helped me hear from over 19,000 Alaskans since this campaign started. I expect, as Governor, that number would be considerably larger. An informed citizenry makes for a stronger community. Reaching out to communities is part of that effort.
Yes. My career has been built on showing up in person, including in the small and remote communities statewide candidates usually skip. On this campaign, I've already spent time everywhere from Levelock to Skagway to Ambler.
Will hold town halls or in-person events across the state. Don't know the regularity or the frequency as that will be dictated by official duties.
Yes! I traveled the state regularly in my House and Senate roles and envision a robust annual schedule that includes rural and urban communities to hold listening sessions. They make a huge impact.
We often held full cabinet meetings in remote locations. We would continue that method of reaching out to rural regions.
Yes. I intend to hold regular town halls and community visits across Alaska, including remote communities. My goal is to maintain a visible statewide presence through in-person visits and virtual options so Alaskans know their governor is accessible and engaged.
Yes, I'd like to as time and travel permit. I held many constituent coffee chats and town halls during my time in the House and Senate. It is important to get input from Alaskans regularly in order to represent them and govern well.
To be determined. My current administration is very open.
I will hold at least one town hall per month across Alaska, including remote communities more or less frequent depending upon need. These events will reach all regions of the state over time, with virtual options for broader access. I will travel to smaller villages to listen and answer questions directly. No community will be left out.

How many full-time staff do you anticipate in your governor's office communications team, and what specific roles will they fill? Please describe each position and its primary responsibility — for example, press secretary, digital media manager, speechwriter, community outreach coordinator, or others you consider essential.

I believe this question is premature. Until I know whether I will be elected, I will not fully consider the make-up of my communications team. Each of the positions you mention is essential, along with a researcher. The primary goal of this team will be to communicate our initiatives and ensure we regularly gather ideas from Alaskans.
With five weeks until the primary election, we are focused on campaigning, listening to Alaskans, and getting our message out. If we win the election, that is when we will make decisions on staffing the administration.
Have to examine the existing structure and compare it with best practices from other states.
I will put together a strong Communications Team to include a press secretary, deputy press secretary, digital communications director, a speechwriter and a community outreach coordinator.
I view this area of the governor’s office as a tremendous opportunity to engage rising talent across the state and incorporate diverse perspectives into how and what we communicate to Alaska. My previous administration included a communication director, deputy communication director, several assistants to the director.
I believe communication is a core function of the government and will staff accordingly. The team will likely include: Communications Director — overall communications strategy and media relations, Press Secretary (2 positions) — daily press engagement, rapid response, scheduling, and inquiries, Digital Communications Manager — website and social platforms, Video and Content Producer — visual storytelling and public information content, Speechwriter/Public Affairs Advisor — remarks, messaging, and public communications, Community Outreach Coordinator — public engagement and statewide outreach, Regional Communications Support — ensuring strong communication outside urban centers.
Good communication will be essential. A minimum of two communications staff with the expectation that other staff may also carry some of the load.
To be determined.
I will keep a lean communications team similar in size to the current administration, approximately 5 full-time staff. Here are the key roles and their main responsibilities: Communications Director: Oversees the entire team and strategy. Press Secretary: Handles daily media inquiries, press conferences, and official statements. Deputy Press Secretary: Supports the Press Secretary and manages regional/rural media. Digital Media Manager: Runs social media, website updates, and online engagement. Communications Coordinator: Assists with speech writing, community outreach, and constituent feedback.
This small, focused team will emphasize clear, timely communication without unnecessary growth or bureaucracy.

Will any communications functions — such as graphic design, video production, translation, or media monitoring — be handled by outside contractors rather than state employees? If so, which ones and why?

At this point, without being in this office, I do not know. Some operations will be handled outside state service where the skills are not found in the state workforce, but where possible, I prefer these services to be kept in-house to strengthen the skills of the communications team and provide more opportunities to Alaskans.
With five weeks to the primary election, we are focused on campaigning, listening to Alaskans, and getting our message out. If we win the election, that is when we will make decisions on staffing the administration.
This will be determined by the comms team in the future.
I am open to augmenting state communication needs with private sector contractors that have businesses located in the state of Alaska where needed.
My preference is to perform these functions in-house.
Core communications functions should remain in-house for accountability and continuity. However, specialized services such as translation, large-scale production projects, accessibility support, and occasional technical services may be contracted when doing so improves quality, efficiency, or statewide reach.
Where it makes sense, yes, especially if it's not a duty that is being done every day or a unique skill set that is not full-time.
To be determined.
Yes, some functions will be handled by outside contractors to keep the team lean and cost-effective, similar to current practices. Graphic design and video production: Mostly contractors or short-term vendors for special projects (e.g., major announcements or campaign-style videos). This avoids full-time staff costs for work that is not needed every day. Translation services: Primarily contractors or AI-supported vendors for efficiency and to cover multiple languages quickly. Media monitoring: Handled through a low-cost subscription service or contractor rather than dedicated staff.
Core roles (press, digital, strategy) will remain state employees for accountability and day-to-day control. This approach saves taxpayer money while maintaining high-quality communication.

Will you commit to responding to public records requests within the timeframe established by Alaska statute? Will you charge a fee for those records?

My administration will follow the Alaska Public Records Act statutes and regulations. If the statutes and regulations provide an option to waive fees and it is in the greater public interest, we will go through that process. As I have mentioned above, the purpose of governing in my administration is to better inform the people of Alaska about our functions and actions. This means being responsive, open, and clear of purpose. This means proactively informing the public of public decisions – whether positive or negative; responding quickly to requests for information; and ensuring the broadest number of Alaskans – regardless of the language they primarily speak – have access to information freely and fully.
Yes. We will not charge a fee.
Once public records requests are submitted they are managed by appropriate staff and working with the Department of Law on the legality of the released documents and the timeframe.
Yes I will and would prefer not to charge for them because they are important references for communication with the public.
Yes. I would like to avoid a fee if at all possible. However, we may need to place a threshold in the event of excessive requests from an individual outlet. I will need to assess this further once in office.
Yes. My administration will comply with Alaska public records laws and respond within statutory timelines. We will seek to provide records efficiently and digitally whenever possible. Fees, when necessary, should reflect actual costs and not become barriers to public access.
Yes. A small fee may be necessary if the project is large.
We will follow the law.
Yes. My administration will fully comply with Alaska’s public records law: We will respond to all properly submitted public records requests within the timeframes set by state statute. We will not delay or stonewall legitimate requests.
Fees: We will only charge fees when allowed by law and only for the actual cost of copying or extensive search time. Routine requests will be provided at no charge whenever possible. Transparency is a priority. Alaskans have a right to see how their government operates.