Why I’m supporting JKT for governor

By Claire Richardson

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about political power in Alaska. Specifically, the inevitable entitlement that old war horses think they deserve because they have slogged through years of "paying their dues" to ascend to the role of governor. Once there, they winnow down their circle of trust until it's just a few stable hands mucking out the hay and polishing the saddle, which they are supposed to use when they either trot into the sunset, or gallop into oblivion. (May this current excuse of a governor be given a speedy pony on his last day.)

Yes, there were a couple of terrific governors in years past, who were able to harness the Legislature and work hard to improve the lives of all Alaskans. But the truth is, Alaska is in a miserable national race for last in education, infrastructure, economic stability and so much more. We need to hand the reins to a new generation. 

This current gubernatorial rodeo has one, and only one, game changer. His name is Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins. I have surprised myself by supporting this Sitka candidate. And here’s why – I am tired of betting on the old guard. Hell, I was part of the old guard, serving 12 years on the third floor of the Capitol. I am proud of the work I did to support Gov. Tony Knowles and Gov. Bill Walker. But watching the rodeo from inside the barn, so to speak, was eye-opening and not for the faint of heart. 

I was curious about JKT’s campaign organizational structure and agreed to attend a Juneau "pod" meeting several months ago for core volunteers. Imagine my surprise that I only recognized one person in the crowded living room. (I think I was the only person there with white hair.) I was used to a strict hierarchical structure of previous campaigns, and I can only describe this process as fluid and oddly connected through local "pods" and statewide conversations. And, new to me, the candidate engages with folks without important campaign titles. This is not a perfect process, but honestly, I find it has value and encourages action community by community.

In this day and age, I don’t expect miracles from any candidate. Whoever becomes governor will be faced with a daunting agenda, a phalanx of aging lobbyists poised to protect their clients’ status quo, and a host of bots and bloggers hoping whoever it is will botch things up in real time. But if the next governor keeps focused on the people who live and work here and the land we dwell on — they may be able to make a difference. 

The Aug. 18 primary is the true Alaska poll. This may be JKT’s first statewide rodeo – but his common sense, integrity, relentless command of policies and data, strategic instincts, and yes, his youthful drive, will bring much-needed energy, passion and focus to our beloved state’s toughest job. He has my vote.

• Claire Richardson, a registered nonpartisan Alaska voter, served eight years in the Knowles/Ulmer administration in its communications and press office, and four years in the Walker/Mallott administration as the lieutenant governor’s chief of staff.