In a forum hosted by the Alaska Family Council, Republican candidates for Governor of Alaska gathered to discuss significant judicial reforms. The event, moderated by Joel Davidson, Editor of the Watchman, took place on May 21, 2026, and featured candidates Dave Bronson, Edna DeVries, Adam Crum, Matt Heilala, Shelley Hughes, and Bernadette Wilson. The discussion centered on issues crucial to Alaskans, including the right to life, school choice, and election integrity, with a particular focus on the Alaska Judicial Council and Grand Jury rights.
Judicial Appointments and the Alaska Judicial Council
The candidates addressed the question of how they would handle judicial nominees from the Alaska Judicial Council with whom they fundamentally disagree. Shelley Hughes, Adam Crum, and Bernadette Wilson expressed a preference for a system where the Governor appoints judges, who would then undergo a legislative confirmation process. Wilson emphasized the importance of a public campaign to educate Alaskans on the qualifications and records of judicial appointees to ensure informed voting decisions.
Edna DeVries and Dave Bronson advocated for electing judges and justices, arguing that this approach would allow Alaskans to have a more direct voice in the judicial process. DeVries highlighted the need for judges to campaign like other elected officials, while Bronson supported the idea of injecting public opinion into judicial appointments. Matt Heilala, however, suggested that the Judicial Council itself is not the root of the problem.
Restoring Grand Jury Rights
Addressing the issue of Grand Jury rights, Adam Crum stressed the role of the Executive branch in curbing judicial overreach, asserting that it is the Governor’s duty to uphold the Constitution. Heilala acknowledged the complexity of the issue, suggesting that the Attorney General should prioritize it.
DeVries pointed to a report published in the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy, which aligns with conservative views on the Grand Jury system, as an important resource. Bronson criticized the Alaska Supreme Court for constitutional violations with Rule 6.1 and SCO 1993. Wilson called for the release of the Kenai Grand Jury report, noting that the decision to release it rests with one individual who has held the position for 30 years. Hughes added that this individual is retiring soon, presenting an opportunity for change. She also mentioned her intention to use the bully pulpit to ensure Grand Jury appeals are not filtered by the Attorney General.
The forum provided a platform for candidates to present their visions for judicial reform, reflecting the concerns of many Alaskans about the current state of the judicial system. Further coverage of the forum is expected to delve into other topics discussed by the candidates.
Original reporting: Must Read Alaska (Anchorage) — read the source article.
