Alaska’s Key Elections: Jared Goecker & Ben Carpenter

This week, we feature interviews with two Alaska Republican candidates: Jared Goecker and Ben Carpenter. Goecker is challenging incumbent Kelly Merrick for a state Senate seat in the Chugiak-Eagle River area. Ben Carpenter is running for Senate in the Kenai Peninsula against Jesse Bjorkman. Both candidates highlight the contrast between conservative challengers and incumbents who have aligned with Democrats despite running as Republicans.

You can donate to Jared at jaredforalaska.com. and Ben at bencarpenterforalaska.com.

1:00-16:57 | "The Challenger's Vision"
Introduction of Chugiak-Eagle River race
Discussion of campaign challenges against Merrick family
Personal story about brother's murder and criminal Justice reform
Door-knocking campaign strategy

16:57-24:27 | "Union Wars"
Discussion of labor negotiations experience
Contrast with Kelly Merrick's union connections
Criminal justice reform plans
Fiscal policy proposals

24:27-38:14 | "The Conservative Champion"
Trump endorsement announcement
Critique of opponent Bjorkman's voting record
Discussion of state spending and PFD issues
Analysis of binding caucus rules

38:14-44:30 | "Follow the Money"
Campaign funding sources comparison
Defined benefits pension system debate
Analysis of state fiscal sustainability

44:30-49:51 | "Education Revolution"
Teacher's Bill of Rights discussion
Charter school advocacy
Parental rights in education