By Suzanne Downing 
The campaign to repeal ranked-choice voting in Alaska reached a major milestone today as organizers with Repeal Now delivering more than 48,000 signatures to the Alaska Division of Elections – far surpassing the number required to place the repeal measure on the 2026 ballot.
Under state law, a citizen initiative must gather at least 34,098 valid signatures from registered Alaska voters, including minimum thresholds from at least 30 of the state’s 40 House districts. The Division of Elections will now begin the process of verifying signatures and confirming that the geographic distribution requirements have been met.
“Today we deliver the voices of Alaskans demanding change,” said Judy Eledge, chair of Repeal Now. “Our petition reflects the strong and growing desire among voters across the state to restore a fair and straightforward election system – one that puts Alaska voters back in control.”
The submission marks the latest chapter in Alaska’s ongoing debate over ranked-choice voting, which was narrowly approved by voters in 2020 and first used in the 2022 elections. The system, which combines an open primary and ranked-choice general election, has faced sustained criticism from conservatives and grassroots activists who say it confuses voters and diminishes party accountability.
A similar repeal effort appeared on the 2024 ballot and came close to success — falling short by less than 800 votes statewide. This new petition drive aims to finish what that campaign started, with supporters saying public opinion has shifted decisively in their favor.
Once the Division of Elections completes its verification process, the lieutenant governor will determine whether the initiative qualifies for the 2026 general election ballot, where voters will once again decide the future of Alaska’s election system.
If certified, it will set up one of the most closely watched political battles in Alaska’s upcoming cycle – pitting liberal defenders of ranked-choice voting against repeal advocates who say it undermines voter confidence and transparency.
Repeal Now can be reached at this link.
If you want to see RCV deposited in the waste bin of failed ideas, send some money to Repeal Now. There are filing requirements that YOU have to address when you make that donation, but it’s not onerous and the folks there can help you through it. I’ve given my signature and much hard earned coin.