Tight Race for Anchorage Assembly Midtown Seat, Recount Possible

Janice Park holds a narrow 41-vote lead over Dave Donley, triggering potential recount

Apr. 18, 2026 at 1:57am

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A photorealistic painting of a lone ballot box in a dimly lit urban setting, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and creating deep shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the importance of the democratic process.The close race for an Anchorage Assembly seat highlights the fine margins that can decide local elections.Anchorage Today

The race for the Anchorage Assembly Midtown District 4 seat remains extremely close, with Janice Park holding a slim 41-vote lead over Dave Donley as of the latest vote count. The narrow margin of 0.38% means a recount is likely to be triggered, which is set for April 24. Election officials are still processing some remaining ballots, with a final determination on the need for a recount to come on April 23.

Why it matters

This race is one of the most closely watched in Anchorage's municipal elections, with the Midtown district seat being a key battleground. The potential recount highlights the importance of every vote and the fine margins that can decide local elections. The outcome could shift the balance of power on the Anchorage Assembly.

The details

As of Friday's count, Park has received 5,022 votes (46.5%) compared to Donley's 4,981 votes (46.2%). The third candidate, Kim Winston, has 3.7% of the votes. A recount will be triggered if the margin of victory is less than 0.5%, which in this case would be less than 54 votes. Election officials will make the final determination on the need for a recount after receiving all preliminarily rejected ballots on April 23.

  • The recount, if necessary, is set for April 24 at 10 a.m.
  • Election officials will determine if a recount is necessary on April 23.

The players

Janice Park

A paralegal who has run unsuccessfully for the state Legislature in past races.

Dave Donley

The former state lawmaker and current Anchorage School Board member.

Kim Winston

The third candidate in the Midtown District 4 race.

Jamie Heinz

The Anchorage Municipal Clerk.

Suzanne LaFrance

The Mayor of Anchorage.

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What they’re saying

“The elections team processed all ballots submitted through election night including special needs ballots and ballots postmarked by election day. What remains are mailed ballots postmarked for April 7 and ballots that still need to be cured.”

— Jamie Heinz, Anchorage Municipal Clerk

What’s next

The Anchorage Assembly will certify the election results on April 28, the same day members will be sworn in.

The takeaway

This close race for the Anchorage Assembly Midtown seat highlights the importance of every vote in local elections. The potential recount underscores the fine margins that can decide these contests and their impact on the balance of power in city government.