AI Tries To Write The News: The Alaskan in haunted hotel contest, Dunleavy may seek Murkowski’s seat
- Mark Sabbatini
- 5 hours ago
- 5 min read
Editor’s note: AI Tries To Write The News is a weekly feature where a commercial AI blog tool is asked to write news stories about notable local events of the past week, with excerpts of the results provided. The intent is to familiarize readers with what AI-generated news content looks like, and should not be considered factual or "reporting" in any sense other than as a basis of comparison to the human-written articles.
Stories for the week of Aug. 24
Example 1
Juneau Independent story from Aug. 27, 2025: Spirits high at The Alaskan Hotel & Bar, nominated for USA Today’s ‘Best Haunted Hotel’ competition
Bettye Adams says she wasn’t exactly spooked to hear the hotel she’s owned for nearly 50 years is a nominee for the Best Haunted Hotel in the U.S. But "I was really, really shocked."
"It took my breath away and I was like ‘OK, I'm not even going to try, this is ridiculous,’" she said Wednesday. "All the other nine entries are either world famous — like Lizzie Borden’s house, that’s one of them — and all these East Coast, big-city places, or outside the big cities like New York, and they're way beyond mansions. They're like castles."
As of Wednesday afternoon, however, The Alaskan Hotel & Bar was third among 20 nominees in USA Today’s Reader Choice award for the best haunted hotel. Online voting began Monday and ends at 8 a.m. Alaska time on Sept. 22. The top 10 winners will be announced Oct. 1...
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AI-generated story: The Alaskan Hotel & Bar Nominated for USA Today Readers’ Choice Award for Best Haunted Hotel
The Alaskan Hotel & Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Juneau, Alaska, has recently caught the spotlight with its nomination for the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards for the best haunted hotel. This accolade highlights not only the hotel’s fascinating history but also its status as a must-visit destination for ghost hunters and curious travelers alike. With a growing interest in paranormal activity, this hotel stands out as a thrilling spot to explore.
Established in 1913, the Alaskan Hotel & Bar is one of the oldest operating hotels in Alaska, with over a century of intriguing stories. It has become an essential part of local lore, attracting visitors eager to uncover its haunting mysteries.
A Glimpse into History
The Alaskan Hotel & Bar was constructed during a period when Juneau thrived as a hub for gold miners and prospectors. Built to accommodate the influx of fortune seekers during the gold rush, the hotel features classic early 20th-century architecture, showcasing wooden beams and period decor.
In its more than 100 years, the hotel has hosted countless events—from lively celebrations to solemn farewells. Many believe that the spirits of those who frequented the establishment linger in its halls. For example, tales from guests recount how the atmosphere shifts dramatically, offering a glimpse into the bustling past of Juneau.
The Haunted Reputation
While the Alaskan Hotel & Bar is rich in history, its ghostly reputation draws in countless visitors. Patrons and staff have reported a variety of intriguing paranormal occurrences, including mysterious noises, flickering lights, and even sightings of ethereal figures.
One of the most well-known legends involves a former guest who supposedly never checked out. Stories describe a woman in a white dress seen wandering the corridors, seemingly in search of something lost. This haunting account lends itself to the hotel’s reputation as one of Alaska’s most eerie locations…
Example 2
Juneau Independent story from Aug. 29, 2025: Report: Gov. Mike Dunleavy to seek Lisa Murkowski’s U.S. Senate seat in 2028
Gov. Mike Dunleavy is planning to run for fellow Republican Lisa Murkowski’s U.S. Senate seat in 2028, according to a Fox News report that cites unnamed sources. Meanwhile, Murkowski told reporters earlier this month she isn’t ruling out running for governor in 2026 even though there are a multitude of other Republican candidates.
Dunleavy, who cannot seek reelection next year since he is nearing the end of his second consecutive term, is a strong supporter of President Donald Trump, while Murkowski has notoriously opposed the president on some key matters. She also is unpopular among many state Republican party leaders who say she is insufficiently conservative, but she has been reelected four times by solid margins since being appointed to the seat in 2002.
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AI-generated story: Alaska's Political Landscape Heats Up: Dunleavy Eyes Senate Seat as Murkowski Considers Governor Run
(Editor’s note: Yet another reminder that not everything in the article may be entirely factual or presented in proper context)
As the political landscape in Alaska evolves, the buzz around Governor Mike Dunleavy's potential run for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Lisa Murkowski is intensifying. This speculation finds its roots in Murkowski's openness to returning to the governor's mansion when Dunleavy's second term ends in 2026. The rivalry between these two influential figures could reshape the state's political future. Understanding their backgrounds and past decisions offers crucial context as this situation unfolds.
The Political Career of Mike Dunleavy
Mike Dunleavy, a committed member of the Republican Party, has been Alaska's governor since December 2018. His time in office has been defined by efforts in fiscal conservatism, education reform, and resource development. For instance, during his administration, Dunleavy proposed budget cuts that affected various state services, aiming for a more frugal approach to governance. This included a notable 25% reduction in Alaska’s education funding, sparking significant backlash from educators and citizens alike…
As he considers a bid for the Senate, his supporters admire his dedication to conservative values. However, critical voices have emerged, particularly around budget decisions and his administration's handling of the COVID-19 crisis, which saw Alaska among the states with the highest per capita infection rates in 2020. These factors could impact his chances should he decide to run for the Senate.
Lisa Murkowski: A Political Veteran
Lisa Murkowski has been a cornerstone of Alaskan politics since her election to the U.S. Senate in 2002. Known for her moderate Republican stance, she often diverges from party lines on critical issues such as healthcare and energy policy. For instance, Murkowski played a key role in the passage of a bill aimed at increasing healthcare access for rural areas in Alaska, showcasing her commitment to bipartisan solutions.
Murkowski's political journey includes service in the Alaska State Legislature, where she gained valuable experience in governance. Raised in a political family, she was appointed to the Senate following her father’s resignation. Notably, she staged a successful write-in campaign in 2010, reclaiming her seat and demonstrating her resilience in the political arena…
The Implications of a Dunleavy Senate Run
If Mike Dunleavy pushes forward with his Senate ambitions, it could lead to a shake-up in Alaska's political environment. His candidacy would likely boost Republican enthusiasm, particularly within conservative circles. However, it might also fracture party unity, especially if Murkowski opts to run for re-election.
Dunleavy would need to tackle pressing issues in his campaign, including Alaska's post-COVID economic recovery and challenges related to climate change. With a state economy heavily dependent on oil revenue, addressing these concerns is crucial. According to a report by the Alaska Department of Revenue, a drop in oil prices could result in a 40% reduction in state funding, impacting residents' livelihoods…
Murkowski's Consideration of a Governor Run
As Dunleavy weighs his future, Lisa Murkowski's potential return to state politics introduces new layers of complexity. If she decides to run for governor, her extensive experience could make her a formidable candidate. Her work has often resonated with voters who value moderate and collaborative approaches, such as her advocacy for healthcare initiatives that aim to keep costs down for families.
Murkowski's focus on pressing issues, including advancing infrastructure and education systems, would likely attract a broad range of voters. In a recent survey, 68% of Alaskans expressed a desire for improvements in state healthcare services, indicating a potential opportunity for her campaign…
