On Tuesday, Alaska voters face an extensive selection in the state’s open primary for governor. This marks the state’s first fully open governor’s race in more than twenty years, prompted by Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s term limit.

Former Anchorage mayor Dave Bronson, a Republican, is among the candidates vying for the governor’s seat. The primary system in Alaska allows all candidates to appear on the same ballot. The top four candidates, irrespective of their party affiliation, will advance to the general election.

Such a system encourages diversity in the political landscape, requiring candidates to appeal to a broad base of voters. With seventeen candidates in the running, the competition is fierce and the outcome is critical for shaping Alaska’s leadership.