Alaska Governor's Aide Charged with DUI in Juneau

Forrest Wolfe, deputy legislative director, arrested after nearly causing accident downtown

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:09pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a car key fob reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the investigation into a drunk driving incident.A state official's alleged drunk driving incident raises concerns about accountability in Alaska's government.Juneau Today

Forrest Wolfe, an aide to Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence in Juneau on Thursday evening. Police say Wolfe's red Chevy Tahoe nearly caused an accident in a busy downtown area before he was pulled over, failed field sobriety tests, and later registered a blood alcohol level above the legal limit.

Why it matters

This incident raises questions about the conduct and judgment of a high-ranking state government official, potentially undermining public trust in the governor's office. Drunk driving also poses serious risks to public safety, especially in a densely populated downtown area.

The details

According to the charging document, a Juneau police officer stopped Wolfe around 10:30 PM on Thursday after his vehicle nearly caused an accident in a busy downtown area near bars, restaurants, and the state capitol building. Police say Wolfe smelled of alcohol, gave conflicting stories, and then stopped answering questions. Wolfe allegedly failed field sobriety tests and later registered a 0.10 blood alcohol level, above the legal limit of 0.08.

  • Wolfe was stopped by police around 10:30 PM on Thursday, March 30, 2026.
  • Wolfe was released from Lemon Creek Correctional Center early Friday morning, March 31, 2026.
  • Wolfe is due back in court on Tuesday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Forrest Wolfe

Wolfe is the deputy legislative director for Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. Prior to joining the governor's office, he worked for the Department of Administration and as a legislative aide. Wolfe was also a Republican candidate for an Anchorage state House seat in 2022.

Mike Dunleavy

Dunleavy is the current governor of Alaska, and Forrest Wolfe is a member of his staff.

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What they’re saying

“Wolfe declined to comment on the allegations in a brief phone call.”

— Forrest Wolfe

“A spokesperson for Gov. Dunleavy had no immediate comment.”

— Spokesperson for Gov. Mike Dunleavy

What’s next

Wolfe is due back in court on Tuesday, April 4, 2026, where a judge will decide on any further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This incident involving a high-ranking state official underscores the need for greater accountability and responsible behavior from government leaders, especially when it comes to public safety issues like drunk driving.