Former Lt. Gov. Craig Campbell joins Bernadette Wilson campaign, calls her the leader Alaska needs

Former Lt. Gov. Craig Campbell has been named chairman of Bernadette Wilson’s campaign for Alaska governor, lending his decades of political and military leadership to support Wilson’s bid to lead the state after the 2026 general election.

In a statement released by the campaign, Campbell praised Wilson’s qualifications and framed her as a bold choice for turning around Alaska’s current challenges.

“Alaska’s future requires a dynamic leader; a person with demonstrated credentials to reverse our stagnating economy, declining statewide educational performance, growing social challenges, and drift away from the founding principles of our state,” Campbell said. “Bernadette Wilson is that person. As a successful business owner, political activist, and proven leader, she has the distinct qualities necessary to lead our state towards prosperity, while protecting our values and the precious aspects that make Alaska exceptional. I am proud to serve as Campaign Chairman to elect Bernadette Wilson as Alaska’s next governor.”

Campbell is deeply respected across the state for his heartfelt Alaska servant leadership. Wilson welcomed Campbell to the campaign and highlighted his unmatched experience and civic dedication:

“I am deeply honored to have former Lieutenant Governor Craig Campbell join our team as campaign chairman,” said Wilson. “His decades of service, both in uniform, and in leadership roles across Alaska, reflect a lifetime commitment to the values we are fighting to protect. He understands, like I do, the urgency of securing Alaska’s economic future and the heartbreaking decisions many families face when trying to determine whether they can afford to stay here. His leadership and insight are invaluable as we work to restore opportunity, protect our way of life, and put Alaska first.”

Campbell served as Alaska’s 10th lieutenant governor and brings over 40 years of political experience in Alaska.

He has held leadership roles in Alaska aviation and aerospace, including President and CEO of the Alaska Aerospace Corporation and Manager of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. He was also appointed by Gov. Mike Dunleavy to the Alaska Railroad Corporation Board of Directors, serving as board chair.

His state government experience includes serving as commissioner of the Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs under two governors and leading the Alaska National Guard as the state’s Adjutant General. He retired in 2009 with the federal rank of Major General and the state rank of Lieutenant General.

A prominent figure in the Alaska Republican Party, Campbell served as finance chair, vice chair, and as Alaska’s national committeeman to the Republican National Committee.

Campbell’s early involvement signals a serious and organized effort ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election. Since announcing her bid for office, Wilson has brought on proven veterans from the Donald Trump and Nick Begich campaigns, has received an endorsement from Congressman Byron Donalds, and has been traveling across the state to meet with Alaskans and listen to their concerns.

Wilson, a conservative business owner and longtime political activist, launched her campaign in May. Her campaign has centered on economic revitalization, emphasizing protecting the Permanent Fund dividend, addressing trawling practices, and improving education, with a firm belief that America’s strength starts with Alaska.