Incumbent Rep. Benjamin Nageak has hired Seattle lawyer, who says a recount request is likely.
North Slope
Western Arctic caribou herd smaller than original estimates
Originally thought to total 206,000, the Western Arctic caribou herd is smaller than first estimated.
Clock is ticking on state dispute with Prudhoe Bay leaseholders
Gov. Bill Walker’s administration has demanded detailed information on how North Slope companies plan to market the region’s natural gas. Companies have resisted, arguing the information either does not exist or would be illegal to hand over.
Wind farm can generate up to 30% of Nome’s power
Depending on how the wind blows, Nome’s wind farm on Banner Peak can generate up to 30 percent of the city’s power.
Elections office still waiting on ballots to arrive by mail in tight House primary
Ballots are still outstanding from four precincts in District 40: Selawik, Browerville, Anaktuvuk Pass and Ambler.
Should Alaskans fear diseases frozen in the permafrost?
Scientists have talked about the possibility of epidemics caused by thawing permafrost, but until now, it’s only been a theory. If the Siberian anthrax outbreak is traced back to spores in the permafrost, it would be a troubling development.
State should talk to U.S. Department of Justice before certifying primary results, lawmakers say
Concerns focus on how the recent primary election was handled in some precincts.
Crystal Serenity cruises on amid environmental concerns
The Crystal Serenity cruise ship is making a 32-day voyage from Anchorage to New York City. Meanwhile, the potential environmental impact of a journey of that scope has some worried.
Westlake widens lead in District 40 primary
Dean Westlake appears to have beaten Rep. Benjamin Nageak in the Democratic House primary for District 40.
State takes control of gas line megaproject; consultant warns of major risks
After months of mixed signals, Gov. Bill Walker’s administration and the state’s three current partners – ExxonMobil, BP and ConocoPhillips — told lawmakers this week that the state will take the lead on the megaproject as soon as this fall.