OPINION: Why I’m still in the race

Since the legal drama has subsided surrounding whether I would remain on the upcoming special general ballot, many people have asked whether I am still running for Congress, or why I decided to stay in the race. In what can be described as a classic, only-in-Alaska twist, voters will have another chance to support my candidacy on the front of the Aug. 16 ballot when they are asked to choose one congressional candidate in the regular primary election. It’s all very confusing for everyone, but one fact was true when I first announced and remains true now: This seat is worth fighting for, and I am in this race because Alaskans deserve an experienced leader who will stand up and fight for our shared interests.

Despite the compressed time frame, I learned a lot from visiting with voters in the run-up to the June election triggered by Rep. Don Young’s sudden passing. Unsurprisingly, when most Alaskans shared their frustrations and concerns with me, it turns out we have more in common than perhaps some might think. The economy and the possibility of a looming recession has everyone nervous. Inflation and the cost of living, especially in rural areas, is crushing families’ finances. Access to health care and mental health services is inconsistent. Finding affordable housing is becoming more difficult every year, especially for those just getting started in their careers. On an international level, Alaska’s role in our national security is weighing heavily across the state and especially in our military communities. These are real, complex, and serious issues. They are not solved by going on TV and giving pithy sound bites or yelling at crowds. Finding solutions will require showing up, every day, and doing the work. Alaskans are famously hardworking and expect no less from their leaders. If given the opportunity to serve in Congress, I will do the hard work because, there is so much to do. Alaskans expect results, not just talk. Alaskans, you have my word: I will show up.

I am also in this race because Alaskans deserve more choices in this election. We were told we would have four candidates to choose from when the new ranked-choice voting system went into effect. Unfortunately, a technicality in the ballot measure language means voters will have only three choices in the upcoming special general election. That’s a loss for voters. I understand some Alaskans feel like they can vote for only one person, that one or both of the other congressional candidates are too extreme. My goal in the regular primary is to make the top four and move on to the general election, where I hope more everyday voters who appreciate bipartisan cooperation and dislike partisan firebrands will find me a refreshing alternative. While I am a proud, longtime Republican, my priority has always been on what is best for Alaska, not what is best for a political party. In this way, I resemble the late Sen. Ted Stevens and Rep. Don Young. Alaska runs in my blood, and her people will always, always transcend politics.

This congressional election represents our best chance to keep a fighter on the job for this state we love so fiercely, we feel it in our bones. It would be an honor to fill that role for my fellow Alaskans.

Tara Sweeney is a candidate for U.S. Congress. She previously served as Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Native American Affairs, as well as co-chair for the Alaska Federation of Natives.

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