Alaska News

Lieutenant governor candidates appearing at forum downtown Tuesday

Four of the five announced candidates for Alaska lieutenant governor have agreed to appear at a candidate forum Tuesday evening in downtown Anchorage.

Bob Williams, one of two Democrats running for the office, said he organized the forum to put early attention on an important contest that may be overshadowed by more high-profile races as the August primary nears. He noted that Gov. Sean Parnell, a Republican seeking reelection, ascended into the office from his position as lieutenant governor after then-Gov. Sarah Palin quit midterm.

The forum is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the YWCA building, 324 East 5th Avenue.

Besides Williams, who is a Mat-Su teacher, Sen. Lesil McGuire, R-Anchorage, Sen. Hollis French, D-Anchorage, and independent candidate Craig Fleener plan to take part in the forum, Williams said. Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan, a Republican who is eyeing statewide office, hasn't responded to the invitation, but there will be a chair for him, Williams said.

The forum will give the public a chance to vet the candidates and go beyond bumper sticker slogans, Williams said.

KTVA-Channel 11 reporter Rhonda McBride is moderating the event.

Anchorage Daily News / adn.com

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