Commercial fishing group ALFA backs Kreiss-Tomkins for governor

The Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association endorsed Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins for governor Thursday, according to a campaign press release, making him its sole candidate in the 2026 race and adding to a growing fisheries bloc behind his campaign.

ALFA, founded in 1978, represents independent small-boat commercial fishermen across Alaska. Executive Director Linda Behnken said the board crossed party lines to reach the decision. "Endorsing a political candidate is a rare move for our organization," Behnken said. "This year we are taking a stand because all our fishermen recognize the need for real change in management of Alaska's fisheries and our board is united in support of JKT."

The endorsement centers on North Pacific Fishery Management Council appointments and state fisheries management direction. Kreiss-Tomkins spent 10 years on the Alaska House Fisheries Committee and served on the board of the Alaska Sustainable Fisheries Trust. "As governor, my administration will stand up for Alaska's small-boat commercial fishermen and the coastal communities that depend on them," Kreiss-Tomkins said in the release. "I will nominate members to the North Pacific Fishery Management Council who support reducing bycatch, who will make sure Alaska communities and Alaskans benefit from our tremendous fisheries resource."

The Kodiak Seiners Association backed him July 3 on similar grounds. The release also lists the Alaska Professional Fire Fighters Association, the Alaska Public Employees Association, SEIU 775, and former Gov. Tony Knowles among his endorsers, along with elected leaders from Cordova to Kotzebue and Anchorage to Fairbanks.

The Aug. 18 primary advances the top four vote-getters to the Nov. 3 general election.