Alaska
Alaska records show no evidence of widespread noncitizen voting or registration • Alaska Beacon
When Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump took the stage Sept. 10 for his televised debate against Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, he repeated a well-trodden falsehood, claiming that noncitizens are voting in large numbers.
Nationally, there is no evidence that noncitizens are voting in significant numbers.
Here in Alaska, state court records since 2011 show only one confirmed instance of noncitizen voting, from a woman born in American Samoa. An official with Alaska’s U.S. Attorney’s office said prosecutors there don’t know of any recent cases in federal courts.
Despite that, some Alaska Republicans have used unfounded claims about noncitizen voting to attack the state’s two automatic voter registration programs.
Nationally, experts warn that noncitizen voting claims are being used to sow doubt about the results of the upcoming election and are encouraging the passage of laws that could prevent legal Americans from voting.
Noncitizen voting is illegal at both the state and federal levels, and some Republican-led states have passed laws that require voters to show proof of citizenship when they register to vote, adding a layer of checks.
This year, Idaho is scheduled to vote on a constitutional amendment that requires voters to prove their citizenship.
In Arizona, if a voter fails to provide proof of citizenship, they’re not able to vote in local or state elections but can still vote in federal elections. A 2023 analysis conducted by Votebeat, a nonpartisan group, found those federal-only voters were concentrated in Democratic-leaning areas, such as college campuses.
The Arizona law has been subject to repeated court challenges, and in August, Alaska attorney general Treg Taylor joined other Republican attorneys general in signing a friend-of-the-court brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the Arizona law.
The U.S. Supreme Court subsequently ruled partially in favor of those who sought to maintain the Arizona law.
But soon afterward, Arizona DMV officials found that more than 200,000 registered voters might be disqualified from voting because the computer system they use had failed to list those voters as having shown proof of citizenship.
The largest group of affected voters is Republican, and the state Republican Party — which has been in favor of the citizenship law — joined Democrats and independents in asking the state Supreme Court to suspend it for those voters.
The court ruled Sept. 20 that those voters can still use a full ballot, effectively nullifying the law until after this year’s election.
Alaska doesn’t have a citizenship-voting law like Arizona’s, but the state Department of Motor Vehicles and the Division of Elections do check potential voters’ citizenship status, officials at each agency said by email.
In Alaska, people who get a state driver’s license are asked if they want to register as an Alaska voter.
If the answer is yes, they have to confirm that they’re a citizen.
Paula Vrana is commissioner of the Department of Administration, which oversees the state Division of Motor Vehicles. She explained the process and referred to Alaska statutes.
“If the individual affirms they are a citizen and wish to register to vote, they are then prompted to answer additional voter registration questions,” she said by email. “These questions have been specifically designated by the Division of Elections to collect all necessary information for voter eligibility verification. Per the authority established by AS 15.07.055 and AS 28.05.045, the DMV transfers to Elections a compilation of each day’s voter registration request data.”
“Elections then conducts a thorough review of each applicant’s details. This review process ensures the data provided by the constituent meets the applicable criteria for voter registration. After this evaluation, Elections takes the necessary steps to either approve (or deny) the applicant’s voter registration or follow up if additional information is needed.”
States are required by federal law to operate “motor voter” programs that allow people to register when they sign up for a driver’s license.
Alaska also has a second automatic program, which permits people to register or update their registration when they sign up for the Permanent Fund dividend.
Aimee Bushnell, a spokesperson for the Alaska Department of Revenue, said that if someone registers through that program and indicates they’re a citizen, their information is sent to the Division of Elections.
“If they marked some other status (lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee), the applicant’s information is NOT transferred to the Division of Elections,” she said by email.
It isn’t clear whether Alaska has audited its voter rolls with an eye toward citizenship. In Oregon, an audit
Those registrations were due to incorrect data entry in Oregon’s motor-voter program. Nine of those noncitizens were flagged as having voted in state elections, but that figure has since been reduced to seven after further review and could be reduced further.
Carol Beecher, director of the Alaska Division of Elections, said that in Alaska, “When someone marks that they are a citizen, 18 or older on election day, and a resident, they do so on penalty of perjury. If there are non-citizens who are registered, it is because they have said they are citizens.”
The 1993 National Voter Registration Act sets the rules for most voter registration programs.
“Under the NRVA the division is not allowed to require certification beyond the statement they provide,” she said by email. “If it happens that a person inadvertently marks that they are a citizen and then finds out they are registered to vote, they need to contact the division to have their name removed from the registration list. If we hear from a different source that a voter may not actually be a citizen, we turn that over to the Department of Law.”
Alaska court records show only one prosecution for noncitizen voting since 2011, a case filed in 2023 that’s still unresolved.
Tupe Smith was born in American Samoa, an island territory in the South Pacific. Its residents are U.S. nationals — having some of the same legal rights as other Americans — but aren’t citizens.
Smith moved to Alaska in 2017, her PFD records show, and lived in Whittier. In 2023, she decided to run for the local school board, in a state-administered election.
She ran uncontested and won a seat on the board, but her victory brought attention from the Division of Elections — which investigated her status — and state prosecutors, who filed charges against her.
Smith is being represented by a public defender, who declined comment on the case. The Alaska Department of Law similarly declined comment.
Under Alaska law, someone has to deliberately lie about their citizenship in order to be prosecuted for voting as a noncitizen, and in a dismissal motion filed to the court, Smith’s attorney said her actions were due to simple confusion.
Smith believed that as a U.S. national, she could vote in lower-level elections but not for president, according to the filing. Frequently, governmental forms simply ask whether the signer is a citizen, Smith said in court documents, adding that there frequently isn’t space to indicate that the signer is a national.
According to the court filing, when she registered as a candidate, she verbally told the person handling her registration that she is an American national, and she expected to be identified as such.
State prosecutors tried to charge Smith with multiple counts of illegal voting, but a grand jury found no probable cause to believe that Smith committed several of the state-alleged crimes.
The dismissal motion on the remaining charges remains pending in state court.
YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE.
WHEREAS, on June 3, 1942, six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, World War II arrived in Alaska when Dutch Harbor on Amaknak Island was bombed by Japanese – the first aerial attack by an enemy on the continental United States; and
WHEREAS, the Japanese pilots expected little resistance; but because of an intercepted message three weeks earlier, the installation was on high alert, and Navy and Marine personnel were prepared with anti-aircraft defenses; and
WHEREAS, encountering unexpected resistance at Dutch Harbor, installation, Japanese forces shifted their focus to the Margaret Bay Naval Barracks, where the attack claimed the lives of 25 servicemen; and
WHEREAS, following the initial attack on Dutch Harbor, Japanese forces launched additional assaults on Dutch Harbor, Adak, Kiska, and Attu, resulting in the Aleut people being evacuated and held in internment camps in Southeast Alaska for three years, through which many did not survive; and
WHEREAS, the brave soldiers of the United States Armed Forces and allied Canadian Forces fought valiantly for more than a year to reclaim the remaining Aleutian Islands. The battle of Attu stands as one of the most costly American assaults in the Pacific, with hundreds of servicemen making the ultimate sacrifice to liberate Alaska; and
WHEREAS, on the 84th anniversary of the bombing of Dutch Harbor, we remember and honor all who were affected by the attack, paying tribute both to the military personnel who served and died to defend our Nation and to the Aleut people who died while imprisoned.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim June 3, 2026, as:
Dutch Harbor Remembrance Day
in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to join with the people of Dutch Harbor, Unalaska, and the Aleutian Islands to honor all who were lost in Alaska during World War II, and I order the Alaska State Flag to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of those who perished.
Dated: June 3, 2026
A plane belonging to the Alaska National Guard appears to have been damaged during operations connected to Operation Epic Fury as part of American military efforts against Iran, according to online reports. Defense officials have so far declined to confirm whether Alaska National Guard personnel or equipment are taking part in the campaign.
Last week, defense industry news outlet The War Zone published photos of a KC-135 Stratotanker transiting through a British airbase. In the pictures, made by photographer Andrew McKelvey, the rear bottom of the fuselage and wing stabilizers are “peppered with temporary shrapnel damage repairs‚“ according to The War Zone’s article. The plane also appears to be missing its refueling boom, the proboscis extending from under the tail to pump off fuel to other aircraft.
In the photographs, the Stratotanker’s tail number is visible, identifying the refueling plane as belonging to the Alaska Air National Guard’s 168th Wing, based at Eielson Air Force Base outside of Fairbanks. The wing’s mission includes aerial refueling. That’s the tactic of large planes unloading vast quantities of fuel to aircraft, ranging from fighter jets to rescue helicopters, in midair.
Pictures from a different photographer published last week by another blog, The Aviationist, show the same plane. The tail includes the letters “AK” painted above a white polar bear.
In addition to the photographs, the reporting from The War Zone is based on publicly available flight data and social media posts scraped from a variety of sources.
According to information from Flight Radar 24, the Stratotanker left Eielson on March 5, just days after the U.S. and Israeli militaries began bombing Iranian targets on Feb. 28. Through March, according to public flight records, the plane was based at Ben Gurion Airport southeast of Tel Aviv, where, according to The War Zone, dozens of American refueling aircraft were staged as part of Operation Epic Fury.
There are no public flight records connected to the Stratotanker through April and most of May, until it appeared to fly through England on the way to the United States at the end of last month.
It is not clear how many Alaska Air National Guard planes, personnel or units are currently deployed in connection to the war effort against Iran.
A spokesperson for the Alaska National Guard referred all questions about Operation Epic Fury to the U.S. Central Command.
A spokesperson for CENTCOM, headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, declined to answer questions on the record or provide any specific information about Alaska National Guard units deployed as part of ongoing military operations, citing the need to protect service members and operational security.
The Alaska National Guard has posted no informational releases or pictures connected to an overseas deployment during the last few months.
Much of Operation Epic Fury has been waged by military aircraft, and aerial refueling is critical to keeping planes supplied during long flights. A May 12 report from the Congressional Research Service composed of public damage reports to U.S. military aircraft noted that among the 42 records of damage or losses were seven KC-135 Stratotankers, though the findings were published before photos emerged of the Alaska-based plane. The report noted that the Defense Department “has not published a comprehensive assessment of combat losses” from Operation Epic Fury.
The tail number is associated with a Stratotanker manufactured in 1964, the year before Boeing ceased making them. All of the nearly 400 KC-135s currently in operation within the American military date back to that era of the Cold War.
The aircraft has the word “Tetlin” painted on the top of its tail. The name is an homage to the Interior Alaska village, one of several selected to honor longstanding bonds between military aviators and Alaska Native communities, according to photographs of a dedication ceremony posted by the Alaska National Guard last summer.
The 168th Wing currently has 12 Stratotankers attached to the unit. That number bumped up in April after a long campaign by Alaska Republican U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan to allocate more tankers to the state’s portfolio given its vast geography and high number of advanced fighter jets.
- Alaska Airlines is opening its newest Lounge at Portland International Airport, featuring thoughtfully designed spaces with twice the square footage and seating of the current space
- The new Lounge reflects the airline’s appreciation for its loyal guests and comes as Alaska continues to expand its service in Portland, offering more flights and more options for guests
- The investment to modernize the Portland Lounge is part of Alaska’s growing portfolio to elevate its global guest experience and expand its Lounge footprint, including new spaces in Seattle, San Diego and Honolulu
PORTLAND, Ore., June 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Alaska Airlines is set to welcome guests to its newest Lounge at Portland International Airport (PDX) when it officially opens on June 4, underscoring its continued investment in premium travel and one of the carrier’s key West Coast hubs.
After more than two years of construction, the approximately 14,000-square-foot Lounge will welcome guests with a warm, thoughtfully designed Pacific Northwest aesthetic, featuring an inviting fireplace and a striking wooden Mt. Hood mural by artist Ben Butler. At twice the size of the current Portland Lounge, it offers more than 230 seats, including Alaska’s Signature Loungers, along with high, open ceilings that bring in natural light and views of PDX’s new terminal. Guests can relax, enjoy fresh, regionally inspired food, sip barista-crafted beverages or cocktails from West Coast partners, or take advantage of ample power plugs and privacy booths for calls and meetings.
“Portland guests have chosen Alaska for years and played an important role in our growth in the Pacific Northwest,” said Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet, products and guest experience. “This new Lounge is our way of thanking them and a reflection of our growing portfolio of premium guest experiences. We look forward to opening our doors this week and welcoming guests with the signature hospitality and thoughtful touches Alaska is known for.”
Alaska is the largest carrier serving Portland, operating more flights than any other airline, including more than 100 daily departures. Portland is a critical hub in Alaska and Hawaiian’s network with expanding service to over 60 destinations across North America and beyond. This summer, Alaska will launch year-round service to Everett/Paine Field and Pasco–Tri-Cities, along with seasonal service to Jackson Hole. Last month, new service began to Baltimore, Bellingham, Idaho Falls, Philadelphia and St. Louis. By this fall, Alaska will offer 50% more seats in Portland than just two years ago, reflecting strong demand for travel and the airline’s continued investment in the market.
“Our strong partnership with Alaska has helped to elevate the new PDX as a world-class destination that showcases the Pacific Northwest and makes everyone feel at home,” said Chris Czarnecki, PDX business and properties director. “We’re thrilled their new PDX Lounge is here for the long-haul, offering travelers a stunning spot to relax, recharge, and experience a taste of our region.”
The nearly $18 million investment in the Portland Lounge is part of Alaska’s growing Lounge footprint and broader commitment to enhancing the guest experience as it expands globally. Building on this investment, Alaska just announced its plans to open a landmark, more than 41,000-square-foot Lounge in 2027. The Lounge, which will be located in Seattle – home to the airline’s main hub – will be the largest in its network and among the largest airline lounges in the country. The airline is also designing its first Lounge in San Diego along with a new, expanded Lounge in Honolulu, both slated for early 2028.
Alaska Airlines Lounge members can access eight premium Lounges across the Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines network, including its largest Lounge in Seattle and additional locations at its hubs in Anchorage, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Alaska Lounge+ membership unlocks access to all Alaska Lounges, plus nearly 90 partner Lounges worldwide, including select oneworld and partner Lounges. To learn more or sign up to become an Alaska Lounge member, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Alaska Airlines opening at Portland International Airport?
A: Alaska Airlines is opening a newly redesigned Lounge at Portland International Airport (PDX) on June 4, 2026, offering a larger, more modern space with premium amenities, regional food and beverage options, and enhanced comfort for guests.
How big is the new Alaska Lounge in Portland?
A: The new Lounge is approximately 14,000 square feet—about twice the size of the previous Portland Lounge—and features more than 230 seats.
What amenities are available in the new Alaska Lounge at PDX?
A: Guests can enjoy:
- Barista-crafted coffee and specialty beverages
- West Coast-inspired cocktails
- Fresh, locally inspired food
- Signature Lounge seating and private booths
- Ample power outlets and workspaces
- Relaxation areas with premium finishes
Who can access Alaska Airlines Lounges?
A: Access is available to:
- Alaska Lounge members
- Alaska Lounge+ members
- Eligible First Class guests
- Eligible oneworld and partner airline passengers
What is the difference between Alaska Lounge and Lounge+ membership?
A: Alaska Lounge+ membership includes access to all Alaska Lounges plus nearly 90 partner Lounges worldwide, while standard Alaska Lounge membership provides access to all eight Alaska-operated Lounges.
Why is Portland important to Alaska Airlines?
A: Portland is one of Alaska Airlines’ key West Coast hubs, with more than 100 daily departures and nonstop service to over 60 destinations across North America. By this fall, Alaska will offer 50% more seats in Portland than just two years ago, reflecting strong demand for travel and the airline’s continued investment in the market.
How is Alaska Airlines expanding its Lounge network?
A: Alaska Airlines is investing in multiple new and expanded Lounges, including:
- A 41,000+ square feet landmark Lounge in Seattle opening in 2027
- A new Lounge in San Diego
- An expanded Lounge in Honolulu
How much did Alaska Airlines invest in the new Portland Lounge?
A: Alaska Airlines invested nearly $18 million in the new Portland Lounge as part of its broader investment in premium travel as the airline continues to grow globally.
About Alaska, Hawaiian and Horizon
Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group, and McGee Air Services is a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines. We are a global airline with hubs in Seattle, Honolulu, Portland, Anchorage, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. We deliver remarkable care as we fly our guests to more than 140 destinations throughout North America, Latin America, Asia, the Pacific and Europe. Guests can book travel at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com. Alaska and Hawaiian are members of the oneworld alliance. Members of our Atmos Rewards loyalty program can earn and redeem points with oneworld airlines and our additional global partners that serve over 1,000 worldwide destinations. Learn more about what’s happening at Alaska and Hawaiian at news.alaskaair.com. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.”
SOURCE Alaska Airlines
-
Sports8 minutes agoNelly Korda, Michelle Wie West and more: Who to watch at U.S. Women’s Open
-
World20 minutes agoEU launches major tech push to break US and China dependence
-
News43 minutes agoCalifornia’s primary for governor is undecided as candidates vie to be in the top two
-
Los Angeles, Ca2 hours agoCalifornia primary election results: governor and L.A. mayor races
-
Detroit, MI2 hours agoAnother bribery scandal hits Detroit. It involves the People Mover
-
San Francisco, CA3 hours agoWhat’s Worth More Than Cash in San Francisco Real Estate? Anthropic Stock
-
Dallas, TX3 hours agoDallas weighs $500 million‑plus repair plans as City Hall’s future comes up for debate
-
Miami, FL3 hours agoMiami biotech executive was followed into his condo by man who allegedly threw him from 25th floor
