4 Special Coverage

The exemptions apply to the same food items that qualify under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP or food stamps, and to residential utilities.

The decision came after multiple people testified on the topic at the Assembly’s regular meeting, almost all against adopting the change.

Her resignation follows that of fellow Senate minority caucus member Mike Shower, who represented Wasilla and resigned at the end of last month to focus on his run for lieutenant governor.

If adopted, Juneau would become the first major city in Alaska to adopt ranked choice voting for municipal elections.

Claman cites experience working across the aisle on a variety of issues. Claman and former state Sen. Tom Begich are the only Democrats in a large field.

If voters approve the measure in 2026, all three components of the 2020 ballot measure would be repealed. 

The Data for Progress poll also shows she leads the field in the governors race. But she has more name recognition and a year of campaigning could change that.

Shower, a Republican, is the sitting state Senate minority leader and has served in the body since 2018. He’s running alongside gubernatorial candidate Bernadette Wilson.

The board also honored outgoing members Emil Mackey and Deedie Sorensen.

Steve Whitney and Melissa Cullum won three-year terms, and Jenny Thomas will serve a two-year term on the board.