Who is Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins? Democrat wins Alaska governor's race
Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins has won the Alaska gubernatorial election, marking the first time a Democrat has held the office since 1998. His campaign focused on affordability, public education, and economic reform.
Why it matters
This victory represents a significant political shift in a traditionally Republican-leaning state and contributes to broader Democratic gains in the 2026 midterms.
Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins has won Alaska's gubernatorial election, ending the Republican Party's hold on the state's governor's office for the first time since 1998. His victory comes as Democrats make significant gains across state governments in the 2026 US midterm elections.Kreiss-Tomkins, a former state lawmaker, defeated three Republican candidates, including one endorsed by US President Donald Trump. His victory means Democrats will control the governor's office in 30 states, after flipping several states that had been under Republican control for years, including Iowa, Georgia, Ohio and Texas.The 37-year-old, popularly known as JKT, is making a political comeback three years after leaving the Alaska state House.
Also covering this story
5 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins wins race for Alaska governor, replaces a Republican
Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins elected to serve as Alaska’s 13th governor
Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins elected Alaska governor
Alaska elects Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins governor
Democrat wins Alaska governor’s seat for first time in nearly 30 years
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