Man fishing in a river with a curved rod, forested mountains in the background; Alaska Democrats logo at the bottom.

Why We Defend Alaska: The Reason for the Summer of Defense

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Alaska is unlike any other place — and we intend to keep it that way.

Every trail, every fish camp, every tight-knit community, and midnight sun hike is part of something bigger: the Alaska way of life. It’s defined by independence, connection to the land, and a deep sense of responsibility to one another.

That’s what we’re defending.

This summer, we launched the Summer of Defense to remind ourselves — and each other — that even in uncertain times, we’re not powerless. We can protect what matters. We can fight back when our rights, our resources, or our communities are under threat.

What are we defending?

We’re defending the right of every Alaska child to go to a fully funded public school.
We’re defending the freedom to fish, hunt, and live off the land the way our ancestors did.
We’re defending clean water, strong local economies, and the dignity of rural communities.
We’re defending democracy — our right to vote, to be heard, and to choose leaders who listen.

This isn’t just politics. It’s personal.

Why Now?

The truth is, Alaska is at a crossroads.

Outside interests are trying to reshape our state for their own gain. National political agendas are threatening everything from reproductive rights to public education. And some leaders in Juneau and D.C. are more interested in power than in solving problems for everyday Alaskans.

But we’ve seen what happens when we show up — in the voting booth, in the legislature, and in our communities. When we organize around shared values, we win real victories. Just this year, a veto-proof majority overturned the Governor’s education cuts. That didn’t happen by accident — it happened because Alaskans stood up.

This Summer, We’re Reclaiming What’s Ours

We’re using this season to reconnect with what we love and remember what we’re fighting for. That’s what the Summer of Defense is all about.

Whether you’re attending a community event, exploring the outdoors, or talking with your neighbors, you’re part of this effort. It’s not just about resisting — it’s about reaffirming who we are.

Alaska deserves leaders who defend it — and a people who never stop demanding better.

So take a deep breath of mountain air. Let the salmon run. Show up. Speak out. And know that you’re not alone.

This is our home. And it’s worth defending.

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Together, Alaska Democrats can win the U.S. Senate and Governorship seats – AND keep control of our Senate in 2026.

But to do this, we cannot sit on the sidelines. With your support, we can continue to stay in the fight, build the strongest Party possible, and help elect leaders who will put people first. Your contribution will help us win statewide in 2026.

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Mary Peltola smiling in a teal-toned campaign photo wearing a puffer jacket; running for U.S. Senate.