Community members had the opportunity to meet local and state candidates during the Interior Native Vote Candidate Mixer held July 20 in Fairbanks. The nonpartisan event gave voters a chance to speak directly with candidates, ask questions about issues important to them, and learn more before casting their ballots in the upcoming Primary Election.
In addition to meeting candidates, attendees were able to learn which legislative district they live in, identify the candidates who will appear on their ballot, and receive information about the upcoming election. The event provided a welcoming opportunity for voters to become more informed and prepared before heading to the polls.
Candidates attending represented races for the Alaska State House, Alaska State Senate, Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly, and Fairbanks North Star Borough School Board. The informal, open-house format encouraged one-on-one conversations between voters and candidates.
To encourage attendees to engage with multiple candidates, participants who spoke with candidates were entered into prize drawings. Door prizes were generously donated by Tanana Chiefs Conference, Fairbanks Native Association, Doyon, Limited, and the Gwich’in Steering Committee.
Interior Native Vote is a nonpartisan voter engagement initiative led by Tanana Chiefs Conference, Fairbanks Native Association, and Doyon, Limited. Through events like the Candidate Mixer, the partnership works to help voters access election information, connect with candidates, and participate in the democratic process.
