Early election results show high voter turnout in rural Alaska
We have been part of a historic election in Alaska, one in which the Alaska Native community was a major force. As a result of unprecedented efforts by the Alaska Native community across the state, our voices were heard loud and clear.
From Metlakatla to Kake to Klukwan, Sealaska shareholder turnout in Southeast exceeded all expectations. And we voted for the people who know us, support us and work with us.
Historically the Alaska Native community participated in a bloc vote. This is the first time the Alaska Native leadership has encouraged a bloc vote, recognizing how important each of our voices are.
In the critically important U.S. Senate race, Senator Murkowski voiced her support for Native people and demonstrated a deep understanding of our history, cultures, challenges and opportunities. As a result, 41 percent of the votes cast were for "write-in" candidates, including Senator Murkowski. Of course, we won't know the final outcome of the write-in until later this month. We do know that Senator Murkowski has been a friend to Southeast Alaska Natives, and if the numbers hold, our voices and votes will have made the difference.
By voting in such numbers for those who know us best, Native voters made it very clear that our priorities include:
- Quality education for our children
- Family wage jobs in our communities
- Finalization of our long-overdue land entitlement
I had the opportunity to talk with Senator Murkowski following Election Day. Her words to me were “you did it, and I’ll never forget it.”
This election, perhaps like no other in the past 20 years, proves that Native voices are powerful. I hope you are as excited as I am with the results in Alaska.
Sincerely,
Albert Kookesh
Sealaska Chair
Preliminary numbers are in from the State of Alaska Division of Elections!
How did the Southeast communities stack up against each other in Community Challenge voter turnout? Which community saw the best increase in mobilizing voters to the polls? Here is what the numbers are telling us so far:
- Klukwan remains the undisputed leader in voter turnout
- Metlakatla made the most impressive gain from last place to second place
- Kake was just a sliver behind Metlakatla
Who will end up on top when all the votes are counted? Check www.sealaska.com in the coming days and see!
To see the first round of results for the November 2 general election go here
Note: General election results provided by the State of Alaska Division of Elections
