Alaskans support our open primary

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (8/18/2026) — Today, Alaskans are voting in an open, nonpartisan primary that sets our state apart. Elsewhere in the Lower 48, voters’ choices are constrained to party ballots where only some voters are afforded the privilege to participate. But here, we know voting is a right for all Alaskan voters — regardless of their party affiliation.

Alaskans support our open primary because it reflects the way we actually vote. When the open primary was first implemented in 2022, more than half of voters split their ticket across party lines — voting for a mix of Democrats, Independents, and Republicans on the same ballot. More than 60% of Alaskan voters do not belong to any political party.

In a nation where political competition is collapsing, Alaska’s open primary offers a different path forward. It welcomes Alaskans to participate in every election and pick the best candidate for the job, regardless of party affiliation. It encourages candidates to earn every vote, rather than appeal to a narrow party base.

Here’s why real Alaskans support our open primary:

“Alaska’s open primary system focuses political competition on serving Alaskans rather than niche partisan agendas. It supports practical governance by rewarding candidates who prioritize economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and building a strong future for Alaskan families.” – John Lincoln, President and CEO of NANA and former State House Representative.

“The old system could have locked thousands of unaffiliated Alaska military members and veterans out of voting in primary elections. As a veteran, that concerns me. Now, Alaska’s election system gives voters the freedom to vote in an open primary however they choose. That’s what voter freedom looks like.” – Bryan Schroeder, Coast Guard Veteran and former U.S. Attorney

“When I moved to Alaska in 1976, we had open primaries, and it worked. Alaskans voted for the best candidate, not just their party’s pick. Repealing this system would hand control of our elections to party insiders and shut out the 64% of Alaskans who don’t affiliate with either party. That’s not Alaska. Vote no.” – Jennifer Johnston, Former State Representative and Anchorage Assembly Member

These Alaskans are members of the coalition to protect Alaska’s elections, a group of more than 100 Alaskans encouraging a NO vote on Ballot Measure 2.  Ballot Measure 2 would close down our open, nonpartisan primary, taking choices away from Alaskans and potentially shutting out the 60% of Alaskans who don’t belong to a political party.

The No on 2 campaign is working to defend Alaska’s election system, including open primaries, dark money disclosure laws, and ranked-choice voting. The campaign is proud to be endorsed by more than 100 Alaska leaders. No on 2 is also committed to campaign finance transparency. For an updated list of donors, including the true source disclosures, see its supporters page. 

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