Alaska State Sen. Shelley Hughes is set to make a major announcement about her political future this evening at a public gathering in Palmer. Political prognosticators believe she is announcing her long-awaited run for governor.
The event will take place at 6:30 pm in the recently refurbished barn at Rebarchek Park, located on the south end of the Alaska State Fairgrounds, just outside the gated area.
In a preview statement, Hughes struck an optimistic tone about the road ahead: “We are on the verge of big and new things in Alaska,” Hughes said. “But we need to be smart in the meantime. If we do things right, I have no doubt that the sun will be rising in our great state in a game-changing way — in a way that will positively and multi-generationally impact our livelihoods and our pursuit of happiness. We’ve always known Alaska has promising potential. It’s time we work together to unleash and realize it.”
Hughes began her public service in the Alaska House of Representatives in 2013 before moving to the Senate in 2017. She has represented the Palmer area and surrounding communities for over a decade. Her district has included greater Palmer, Chugiak, Knik-Fairview, and Settlers Bay. Over the years, she has held key leadership roles including Senate Majority Leader, Chair of both the Judiciary and Education Committees, and a seat on the influential Senate Resources Committee.
Hughes has also had a strong footprint nationally. She currently serves as vice chair of the National Federalism Commission, focusing on restoring balance between federal and state authority. She is Alaska’s delegate to the National Conference of State Legislatures’ Artificial Intelligence Task Force, and she chairs a 36-member bipartisan working group aimed at strengthening food security and growing Alaska’s agriculture sector. Additionally, she sits on the national board of the State Agriculture and Rural Leaders.
Known as one of the most accessible legislators in Juneau, Hughes has built her career on listening to constituents and emphasizing the importance of civic engagement.
Those unable to attend the announcement in person can tune in virtually via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2036153616?omn=86320546025
Meeting ID: 203 615 3616
One-tap mobile:
+1 253-205-0468,,2036153616#
+1 253-215-8782,,2036153616#
Hughes has not revealed the specific nature of her announcement, but it’s a poorly kept secret that she is running for statewide office.
