Alaska’s sole U.S. House seat is the focus of a fierce electoral contest, with several candidates heading to November’s face-off following the rank-choice primary. First-term incumbent Rep. Nicholas Begich III, a Republican, seeks to retain his position. He will compete against independent Bill Hill, as both candidates secured spots in the general election. As of the latest count, Begich leads Hill by a margin of 47.9% to 29.5%.

The primary also included additional candidates: Republicans Ed Goldfarb and Clay Strickland, Democrats Eric Hafner and Yaquelin Reynoso, Libertarian John Foddrill, and nonpartisans David Ambrose, Lady Donna Dutchess, David Richey, and Melania Salazar. Although Democrat William Schultz withdrew due to financial issues, his name remained on the ballot.

Despite his withdrawal, Schultz held third place when the race was called. Eric Hafner, described by local media as a ‘federal inmate and perennial candidate,’ followed. Hafner is currently serving a 20-year sentence for threats against public officials. His candidacy emphasizes the variety seen in this electoral contest.

Bill Hill’s independent campaign stands out thanks to his substantial fundraising efforts, accumulating over $1.3 million primarily from individual contributions. The capacity for upsets in special elections is significant, as evidenced by Begich’s unseating of former Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola, a special election victor herself.

Hill, a commercial fisherman and member of the Dena’ina Athabascan community, has resided across Alaska, currently living in Naknek with a population of 470. His campaign incorporates positions from both political spectrums, supporting the Second Amendment, tax cuts, and law enforcement. Additionally, he advocates for choice and increased billionaire taxation.

Conversely, Begich’s campaign focuses on overturning Biden-era restrictions on oil and gas exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Unlocking Alaska’s resources, cost reduction, job creation, protection for native communities, and border security feature prominently in his agenda. Begich also serves as the Executive Vice Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus.