Bernadette Wilson Enters Alaska Governor Race, Advocates for Energy and Against Ranked Choice Voting

In her first interview since announcing her candidacy for Alaska governor, Bernadette Wilson, a former radio host and conservative icon, discussed key issues in the race with Fox News Digital. A lifelong Alaskan, she hails from a politically active family—her great-uncle, Wally Hickel, served two non-consecutive terms as governor.

Wilson, who owns a garbage company, emphasizes her entrepreneurial background, saying it complements her political instincts shaped by her family’s legacy. “I come from a long line of business people,” she remarked, noting her family’s contributions to Alaska’s economy.

Opposition to Ranked Choice Voting

Wilson is a vocal opponent of ranked choice voting, criticizing it as confusing and disenfranchising for voters. Conservatives in Alaska have linked this voting method to the election of former Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola. “That is mission-critical,” she stated about repealing the system.

Views on ranked choice voting vary across the country; while it faced backlash in Alaska, proponents in Virginia credited it with helping elect Republican Glenn Youngkin as governor in 2021.

Focus on Energy Development

Energy remains a crucial topic for Wilson, who intends to collaborate with the Trump administration on a domestic energy renaissance if elected. “Under the Biden administration, Alaska faced sanctions more than Iran,” she said, asserting that Alaska can lead the nation in energy production.

Regarding relations with Canada, she highlighted the importance of cross-border projects, specifically advocating for railroad development to enhance interactions with the neighboring country. Wilson is vying against Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom and State Sen. Click Bishop in the upcoming 2026 election.

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