Bernadette Wilson Eyes Alaska Governorship with a Focus on Energy Policy

In a recent interview, Bernadette Wilson, a former talk radio host and a well-known conservative figure in Alaska, discussed her aspirations to become the state’s next governor. This interview marks her first public statement since officially launching her campaign. Wilson emphasized the key role of energy development in her platform and expressed eagerness to collaborate with the Trump administration if elected.

Background of a Political Outsider

Wilson, a lifelong Alaskan, was born in Kenai and raised in Anchorage. Despite being a political outsider, she has deep family ties to the state’s governance. Her great-uncle, Wally Hickel, served as Alaska’s governor, first in the 1960s as a Republican and again in the 1990s with the Alaska Independence Party. Such political lineage positions Wilson as a familiar figure in Alaska’s political landscape.

“I come from a long line of business leaders. My grandfather helped build a significant portion of Anchorage,” Wilson remarked. She runs a waste management business that has recently marked its ninth anniversary. Wilson believes her entrepreneurial background, coupled with her familial insights into state politics, uniquely equips her for the governor’s role.

Opposition to Ranked Choice Voting

Ranked choice voting has become a contentious issue in Alaska, and Wilson is firmly against it. She expressed concern that this voting system, which allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, complicates the electoral process for many citizens. Conservatives have criticized ranked choice voting, attributing the election of former Democratic Representative Mary Peltola to this system. Incumbent Governor Mike Dunleavy is term-limited, leaving an opening for contenders like Wilson.

“Ranked choice voting disenfranchises voters. It’s confusing, and I have heard from numerous constituents who struggle to understand how it works. Eliminating this system is mission-critical,” she stated.

Other states have reported mixed outcomes with ranked choice voting. For example, in Virginia, supporters assert that the system helped the Republican Party select businessman Glenn Youngkin as their gubernatorial nominee in 2021, ultimately leading to a significant Republican victory in the fall election.

The Energy Agenda

For Wilson, energy represents the cornerstone of Alaska’s economy and a crucial issue in her campaign. She intends to support a domestic energy renaissance, particularly if she can work alongside the Trump administration. “Energy is vital for Alaska’s future. It is concerning that under the current administration, Alaska faced more sanctions than Iran,” she remarked.

Wilson is convinced that Alaska possesses the potential to lead the country in energy production. She aims to leverage this abundance of resources to bolster the state’s economy significantly.

Cross-Border Collaboration with Canada

Addressing another significant political topic, Wilson commented on the ongoing tensions between the United States and Canada regarding trade and cross-border policies. If elected, she aims to foster collaborative initiatives with Canada, particularly concerning infrastructure projects.

“Canada’s proximity to Alaska is crucial for us. Establishing a railroad that connects through Canada is one of my top priorities to enhance our interactions and trade,” she asserted.

A Competitive Race Ahead

Wilson faces a challenging path to the governorship, contending with candidates such as Lt. Governor Nancy Dahlstrom and State Senator Click Bishop from Fairbanks in the upcoming 2026 election. Each candidate brings unique perspectives and experiences to the race, setting the stage for a competitive electoral contest.

Engaging the Voters

As Wilson continues her campaign, she emphasizes the importance of engaging Alaskan voters on key issues such as energy security and election integrity. With a blend of personal experience and familial political heritage, she aims to resonate with constituents who seek strong leadership in Alaska’s future.

Looking Ahead

Bernadette Wilson’s rise in Alaska’s political arena showcases the intriguing dynamics of local governance and electoral processes. As her campaign unfolds, it presents an opportunity for voters to consider the pathways to addressing critical issues affecting their state. Whether or not she secures the governorship, her candidacy contributes to the vital discourse on Alaska’s direction in the years to come.