Anchorage Attorney Brelsford Enters Alaska Governor Race

Independent candidate focuses on education and rural issues

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:24am

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Anchorage attorney Gregg Brelsford has entered the race for Alaska's governorship as an independent candidate, bringing the total number of contenders to eighteen. Brelsford, 75, announced his candidacy on Tuesday, positioning himself as a champion for Alaska's education system and a voice for rural communities.

Why it matters

Alaska's political landscape has seen significant changes in recent years, including the implementation of ranked-choice voting. Brelsford's independent run reflects this trend, appealing to voters who may be dissatisfied with the established political parties. His focus on education and rural issues could also resonate with Alaskans seeking a different approach from the current administration.

The details

Brelsford's background includes experience as an Anchorage prosecutor, a municipal manager for communities in Bristol Bay, and CEO of the Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association. He previously ran for Alaska's at-large congressional seat following the death of Congressman Don Young. Central to Brelsford's platform is a commitment to improving Alaska's public education system, which he says has been underfunded by the Dunleavy administration and Republican lawmakers. Brelsford is investing $200,000 of his own funds into his campaign as initial 'seed' funding and plans to prioritize campaigning in rural Alaska, leveraging his extensive experience working with villages and tribal organizations.

  • Brelsford announced his candidacy on Tuesday, March 28, 2026.
  • The primary election is scheduled for August 2026, with the top four candidates advancing to the November general election.
  • Candidates have until June 1, 2026 to officially join the race.

The players

Gregg Brelsford

A 75-year-old Anchorage attorney and independent candidate running for Alaska Governor.

Mike Dunleavy

The current Governor of Alaska, whose administration and Republican lawmakers Brelsford has criticized for underfunding the state's education system.

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What they’re saying

“They've abandoned and betrayed and sold out our K through 12 students, and their teachers, and their parents.”

— Gregg Brelsford, Candidate for Alaska Governor

“I came of age in rural Alaska. I've spent years and years in villages, small towns...so I'm going to be spending a lot of time introducing myself to people there.”

— Gregg Brelsford, Candidate for Alaska Governor

What’s next

The primary election is scheduled for August 2026, with the top four candidates advancing to the November general election. Candidates have until June 1, 2026 to officially join the race.

The takeaway

Brelsford's independent run reflects the shifting political landscape in Alaska, where voters may be seeking a different approach from the established parties. His focus on education and rural issues could resonate with Alaskans looking for a candidate who understands the unique challenges facing the state.