SOUTHEAST ALASKA SEINERS ASSOCIATION
June 30, 2026 – As Alaska’s gubernatorial race moves into full swing alongside peak summer fishing season, the Dock the Vote effort is issuing a call to action for fishermen, processors, and those in marine trades and coastal communities across the state: make a plan now to vote.
With two critical elections on the horizon – the August 18 Primary and the November 3 General Election – Dock the Vote is reminding Alaska’s fishing communities that the decisions made in Juneau can have lasting consequences on the industry that defines the state.
Why This Race Matters for Alaska’s Fishing Industry
The governor controls appointments that shape every aspect of Alaska’s fisheries management: the Board of Fisheries, nominees to the North Pacific Fishery Management Council, and the ADF&G Commissioner.
This isn’t about telling anyone who to vote for. It’s about making sure the people who depend on these fisheries are actually represented when the decisions get made.
The Challenge: Fishing Season and Election Season Collide
Dock the Vote was created specifically to address one of the largest barriers to voter participation in Alaska’s fishing communities: timing. The summer fishing season and the primary election season overlap almost exactly, leaving many on the water, in remote locations, and working unpredictable schedules just when involvement is most critical.
The initiative encourages all industry workers to get ahead of this by confirming their voter registration, requesting absentee ballots well in advance, and taking advantage of Alaska’s early voting options.
We know summer is not the time anyone wants to be thinking about politics. But taking 30 minutes now to start informing yourself and sort out your ballot is worth it.
Key Deadlines for Alaska Voters
- July 19: Voter registration deadline
- August 8: Absentee ballot request deadline (by mail)
- August 17: Electronic absentee ballot request deadline
- August 18: Primary Election Day
- November 3: General Election Day
How to Get Involved
Dock the Vote is calling on all those with a stake in the industry’s future. Fishermen aren’t the only ones affected. Marine tradespeople, processors, suppliers, and small business owners onshore also depend on well-managed, accessible fisheries. The ask is simple: know key voting deadlines and make sure those around you have a plan.
For more information, visit: www.dockthevote.org
Facebook: Dock the Vote AK
Instagram: @dock.the.vote.ak
About Dock the Vote
Dock the Vote is a nonpartisan voter participation effort focused on increasing civic engagement among Alaska’s commercial fishing industry and coastal communities. This grassroots effort provides resources, deadline reminders, and planning tools to help those in the industry exercise their right to vote despite the demands of the fishing season.
Dock the Vote encourages all Alaskans connected to the fishing industry to register, request absentee ballots early, and plan to vote in both the August Primary and the November General Election.
