The Must Read Alaska Show

Unpacking Alaska’s Push to Revoke Ranked Choice Voting

In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter welcomes Bernadette Wilson of Repeal Now Alaska to discuss the second effort to overturn Alaska’s ranked choice voting (RCV) system. They begin by defining RCV—how it replaced traditional closed primaries with an open “jungle primary” advancing the top four candidates and then allowing voters to rank their top four choices in a multi-round count—and critiquing its complexity and disenfranchisement of voters.
Wilson explains the legal and logistical steps required for repeal: gathering just under 35,000 valid signatures from at least 35 of Alaska’s 40 house districts and submitting them by mid-January 2026 to qualify for the 2026 election. She outlines the statewide network of regional signature gatherers, the need for financial contributions to cover mailing and reporting costs, and the importance of correctly matching petition signatures and addresses to voter registration records.
The conversation closes with a call to action for listeners to visit Repeal Now Alaska’s website: repealnowak.com or Facebook page to sign the petition, volunteer as signature gatherers, and donate—even small amounts help cover the cost of mailing petition books.
The episode underscores the coalition’s commitment to a clear, straightforward voting process and encourages Alaskans—and interested non-residents—to get involved.

100 Days of Impact: Congressman Nick Begich on Alaska’s Role in a New Era

In this engaging episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, Congressman Nick Begich takes center stage to discuss the whirlwind first 100 days of the new Congress, offering a deep dive into the priorities shaping Alaska and the nation. Begich highlights the unprecedented pace of legislative action under Republican leadership, focusing on key achievements like the Lake and Riley Act, which strengthens immigration enforcement and empowers states to hold the federal government accountable. He outlines efforts to secure the southern border, curb the flow of illegal drugs, and prioritize American interests in trade and spending, all while exposing wasteful programs that have long burdened taxpayers.
A significant portion of the conversation centers on the budget reconciliation process, which Begich sees as a golden opportunity for Alaska. He details plans to advance resource development, including expanding leasing in ANWR, unlocking potential in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, and revitalizing the state’s mining and timber industries. These initiatives, he explains, are designed to generate revenue for both Alaska and the federal government, fostering economic growth and reducing reliance on federal dollars. Begich also addresses the contentious issue of Alaska’s revenue split with the federal government, advocating for a return to the promised 90-10 split on new leases to bolster the state’s financial independence.
Beyond Alaska-specific issues, Begich tackles broader national challenges, such as the ballooning $36 trillion national debt and the trillion-dollar annual interest payments that threaten fiscal stability. He emphasizes Republican resistance to tax hikes, instead favoring cuts to waste, fraud, and abuse, supported by the Department of Government Efficiency and the DOGE caucus. Begich also discusses Medicaid reform, proposing eligibility checks and work requirements to ensure the program serves those truly in need, while addressing the misuse of benefits by non-citizens. On healthcare costs, he points to long-term solutions like healthier food regulations and curbing pharmaceutical advertising to ease the burden on consumers.
A particularly striking moment comes as Begich raises concerns about federal funds potentially looping back into the political sphere, citing examples of NGOs, straw donors, and dark money influencing elections. He stresses ongoing investigations to ensure transparency and legality in campaign financing, warning that unchecked interference could undermine democratic integrity. Throughout, Begich’s passion for Alaska shines through, as he champions policies to create jobs, ensure economic predictability, and empower young Alaskans to build their futures in the state. This episode captures a pivotal moment in national and Alaskan politics, with Begich working hard for Alaskans.

AIDEA’s Court Victory Over ANWR Leases: Alaska’s Economic Path Forward

In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter and guest Randy Ruaro focus on the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority’s (AIDEA) landmark court win in Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority v. Department of Interior, which declared the Biden administration’s cancellation of oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) illegal, reinstating AIDEA’s leases and opening the door for development under the Trump administration. They discuss how this victory could unlock billions in state and federal revenue from ANWR’s vast oil reserves, while addressing ongoing challenges like federal permitting delays and environmental opposition that have hindered such projects. Beyond the court case, they explore AIDEA’s broader mission, rooted in Alaska’s constitutional mandate to develop resources for public benefit, which includes supporting both large-scale resource initiatives and small businesses. The conversation also touches on opportunities in critical minerals and other sectors, underscoring AIDEA’s role in driving sustainable economic growth and job creation for Alaskans while meeting global energy demands and national security priorities.

Alaska's Pension Crisis: The High Cost of Senate Bill 78 and Smarter Solutions

In this exciting episode of the "Must Read Alaska Show" podcast, host Ben Carpenter dives deep into Alaska's pension debate with Ryan Frost and Mariana Trujillo from the Reason Foundation. They break down the major issues surrounding Senate Bill 78 (SB 78), which proposes returning Alaska’s public pension system to a costly defined benefit plan.
The discussion kicks off with a fast-paced explanation of the differences between defined benefit (DB) and defined contribution (DC) systems. While DB plans offer a fixed retirement income, they’ve become unsustainable for many states and companies. Alaska’s pension system, still $7 billion in debt, is a perfect example of why DB systems are risky and expensive.
Frost and Trujillo slam the notion that SB 78 will boost public employee recruitment and retention, pointing out that Alaska’s public sector turnover is actually below the national average! They reveal that the proposed switch to a DB system would make retirement worse for most employees, despite adding billions in costs to the state.
Rather than returning to an outdated, expensive pension model, they argue Alaska should focus on strengthening its current DC system, potentially improving it for police and fire workers, while avoiding a massive pension crisis. With SB 78’s sky-high costs, Alaska needs to think smarter—before it faces an even bigger financial headache.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about Alaska’s financial future!

Alaska’s Fiscal Crossroads: Confronting Budget Deficits and Defending Liberty

In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter—former legislator and combat veteran—moderates a deep dive into Alaska’s long-standing fiscal challenges with guests Senator Mike Shower and Representative Kevin McCabe. The conversation revolves around the state’s structural budget deficit, the volatility of oil revenues, and the erosion of the original intent behind the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). Together, the lawmakers explore the urgent need for a comprehensive fiscal plan, including spending caps, government downsizing, and potential tax reforms. They caution against continued reliance on federal funds and the Permanent Fund, warning that a government unaccountable to its citizens threatens individual liberty. The episode is a candid, sometimes sobering, discussion on the lack of political will and leadership, the influence of public sector unions, and the uphill battle to re-engage Alaskans in the governance of their state.

Moms for Liberty and the Fight for Alaska’s Education Future

In this compelling episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter welcomes Donna Anderson, a retired educator and the Kenai Chapter Chair for Moms for Liberty, to discuss the pressing issues facing Alaska’s education system.
 
With over 30 years of involvement in the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District as a teacher, substitute, parent, and grandparent, Donna brings a wealth of firsthand experience to the conversation. She opens up about her decision to retire after 26 years of teaching, driven by frustration with inconsistent policies, questionable curriculum choices like Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA), and a growing disconnect between district leadership and classroom realities.
 
Now, as a leader in Moms for Liberty—a national organization dedicated to empowering parents and holding government accountable—Donna is channeling her passion into grassroots advocacy. She sheds light on overcrowded classrooms, controversial age-inappropriate content, and the district’s failure to address teacher burnout or conduct exit interviews to understand why educators and families are leaving. From her regular presence at school board meetings to her role in launching a statewide legislative committee, Donna explains how Moms for Liberty is mobilizing concerned parents, grandparents, and even dads across Alaska’s four chapters (Fairbanks, Mat-Su, Anchorage, and Kenai Peninsula) to demand transparency and better outcomes for students.
 
Listeners will gain insight into the challenges of curriculum rushed into implementation, the financial waste of unused materials, and the broader cultural and policy shifts needed to retain both students and teachers. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or citizen seeking solutions, this episode offers a candid look at the state of public education and a roadmap for getting involved. Contact Donna at moms4libertykpen@gmail.com or 907-252-7207 to join the effort, or visit momsforliberty.org to connect with a chapter near you and “find your people.”

Unpacking Alaska's Legislative Priorities with Rep. Sarah Vance

In this compelling episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter welcomes Alaska State Representative Sarah Vance, who represents District 6 out of Homer, for an in-depth look at the Alaska State Legislature’s current session. Recorded on March 3, 2025, this conversation unpacks the bills that have landed in House Finance—a key indicator of legislative priorities—45 days into the session. From the recently passed Railroad Corporation Financing bill to proposals like increased education funding, e-cigarette taxes, and defined benefits for public employees, Rep. Vance breaks down what’s moving and why. She highlights a recurring theme: a government-centric focus that seems to prioritize public sector interests over the needs of everyday Alaskans.
 
Rep. Vance doesn’t shy away from tough questions, challenging the status quo of “business as usual” in Juneau. She critiques the lack of education policy reforms tied to the proposed $1,000 Base Student Allocation (BSA) increase, which could balloon the education budget by 43% over three years, and questions how Alaskans will foot the bill—potentially through a shrinking Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) or new taxes. With passion and clarity, she connects the dots between a stifled economy, social issues like domestic violence, and the need for a legislature that champions liberty and self-reliance over dependency on federal dollars or government expansion.
 
Beyond the numbers, Vance shares her personal legislative efforts, including bills to combat human trafficking and obscene child sex material—measures aimed at real-world safety rather than government growth—though they remain stalled in committee. She urges Alaskans to stay engaged, emphasizing that public outcry is critical to driving reform, reducing waste, and refocusing the state on economic vitality and independence. Listeners will also hear her frustration with the lack of will to cut inefficiencies (like unfilled government positions) and her call for a mindset shift away from begging for federal handouts toward leveraging Alaska’s vast resources.
 
Join Ben and Sarah for an authentic, no-holds-barred update from the heart of “Stinky Juneau,” peeling back the layers of the onion in a capital that’s hard to access and harder to influence. If you value this insider perspective, visit mustreadalaska.com to support the show and keep the lights on. This is a must-listen for anyone who cares about Alaska’s future!

Alaska's Education Funding Battle & Budget Realities with Rep. Will Stapp

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter welcomes Alaska State Representative Will Stapp for an in-depth discussion on the pressing financial and legislative issues facing the state. At the heart of the conversation is House Bill 69, a controversial proposal to significantly increase education funding—without a clear plan to pay for it. Rep. Stapp explains the political maneuvering surrounding the bill, the challenges of balancing Alaska’s budget, and the broader implications for taxpayers.
Beyond education, they explore the state’s looming fiscal cliff, the growing tension between spending and taxation, and the need for programmatic cuts to ensure responsible governance. Rep. Stapp also shares details on his efforts to repeal outdated government programs, his proposed constitutional amendment to cap spending based on private sector GDP, and even the grassroots push to designate an official state dinosaur.
With candid insights and behind-the-scenes legislative updates, this episode is a must-listen for Alaskans wanting to understand where their tax dollars are going and what the future holds for the state's economy. Tune in for a deep dive into Alaska’s financial challenges, political dynamics, and a few surprises along the way!