Alaska Voters Face Two Ballot Measures on Campaign Finance Limits and Election Rules

Alaska is preparing for two statewide ballot measures slated for the 2026 elections. Ballot Measure 1 proposes new campaign‑finance contribution limits, capping individual donations at $2,000 to candidates and $5,000 to parties, with higher caps for groups and joint gubernatorial tickets. The measure’s sponsor, State Representative Calvin Schrage, argues the limits would "level the playing field" after a 2021 court decision struck down previous caps. Opponents, including Amy Demboski, contend the limits could advantage incumbents and expand PAC influence.

Ballot Measure 2 would repeal the 2020 reforms that introduced ranked‑choice voting and open primaries, reinstating a closed primary system and removing recent campaign‑finance disclosure rules. Sponsored by Republican gubernatorial candidate Bernadette Wilson and others, the proposal seeks to eliminate spending limits, disclosure requirements for large contributions, and fines for violations. Public hearings for both measures were held on July 27, chaired by Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom, with a second hearing scheduled for August 5. Measure 1 will appear on the August 18 primary ballot, while Measure 2 is set for the November general election.