Congresswoman-elect Peltola lands in Bethel before heading to Washington D.C.

Consultant-elect Mary Peltola touched down in Bethel on Sept. 7 to spend a number of nights in her hometown earlier than she heads to Washington D.C.

Peltola will function Alaska’s sole U.S. Consultant and change into the primary Alaska Native in Congress when she’s sworn in on Sept. 13.

A small crowd circled Peltola subsequent to the bags carousel on the Alaska Airways terminal, as Alaska’s soon-to-be Congresswoman pulled a inexperienced curler bag behind her as she hugged household and mates and took pictures with supporters.

Some had indicators to welcome Peltola residence. Kathy Hanson’s home made posterboard signal merely stated “Rep. Peltola.”

“I’m so excited that now we have really elected a U.S. consultant who’s from right here and she or he’s a girl. Oh my gosh,” Hanson stated. “And she or he’s Alaska Native.”

Different supporters, like Alice Jung, simply occurred to be catching flights, however have been excited to be swept into the welcoming committee even when they weren’t there particularly to greet Peltola.

“It’s simply good to see an Alaska Native in there,” Jung stated. “She is aware of all our issues within the bush.”

Gracie Nelson was additionally on the airport to catch a flight out of city, and she or he and her two nieces hopped into a gaggle image with Peltola and a crowd of supporters, household, and mates.

“Simply so happy with her,” Nelson stated. “She’s come alongside so nicely for herself and she or he’s accomplished a lot, I really feel like. And all people’s going for her.”

Bev Hoffman helped arrange the occasion. She’s recognized Peltola because the congresswoman-elect was a toddler, and she or he cried final week when the election outcomes have been introduced.

“I yelled, and screamed, and jumped up and down, and I simply was overwhelmed with pleasure,” Hoffman stated.

Peltola’s relations have been on the airport to greet her as nicely, together with her sister, Margaret Fitka, who Peltola wrapped in an extended hug.

“We’re simply so excited and happy with her,” Fitka stated. “To simply put your self on the market. And to see her win? It’s simply superior.”

Ana Hoffman stood close to Fitka. Ana is the president and CEO of Bethel Native Company and the co-chair of the Alaska Federation of Natives. She’s additionally a detailed pal of Peltola’s.

“I feel she’s simply ran an incredible marketing campaign. And all through she’s simply actually stayed true to her values. And so I’ve confidence that that can proceed to hold by means of to her success,” stated Ana.

As soon as she’s sworn in, Peltola will serve the final 4 months of late Rep. Don Younger’s time period. She’s operating in November to serve the seat’s subsequent full, two-year time period.