In a move widely interpreted as the clearest signal yet of his intent to run for governor, Adam Crum has submitted his resignation as commissioner of the Alaska Department of Revenue, effective Aug. 8. Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced the change Friday and praised Crum for his leadership and service across two major state agencies.
Crum, who previously led the Department of Health and Social Services before taking the helm at Revenue, has been a visible figure in the Dunleavy administration and is considered a likely contender to succeed the term-limited governor in 2026. He is a well-known businessman from the Mat-Su Valley.
“Commissioner Crum has been an exemplary leader whose unwavering dedication and innovative approach have significantly benefited Alaskans,” Dunleavy said in a written statement. “His collaborative spirit and commitment to serving our communities have made a lasting, positive impact.”
As health commissioner, Crum steered Alaska through the turbulent Covid-19 pandemic, coordinating support for industries like tourism and fishing while managing public health responses. When the Department of Health and Social Services was split into two agencies in 2022, Crum transitioned to lead the Department of Revenue, where he focused on stabilizing state finances and modernizing revenue systems.
His resignation comes as political chatter in Republican circles intensifies about the 2026 election cycle. Crum has not publicly confirmed his candidacy, but stepping down from his executive post is widely viewed as a necessary and proper step for a statewide campaign.
In a prepared statement, Crum thanked the governor and his colleagues, saying, “It has been an honor serving Alaskans… I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to Alaska’s prosperity and am excited to see the state’s continued success.”
The governor’s office said an acting commissioner will be appointed in the coming days.
Attorney General Treg Taylor is also believed to be running for governor but has not announced his resignation. However, he has increased his public speaking engagements to a level where it appears he is campaigning. Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom has also announced she is running.
The last year of the Dunleavy Administration is being set up with key members of his cabinet leaving or being distracted during a critical time, when Dunleavy is working to launch the Alaska LNG project.
On Thursday, Sen. Shelley Hughes filed for office. Others who have filed are former Sen. Click Bishop, Mat-Su Mayor Edna DeVries, Dr. Matt Heilala, Angoon resident James Parkin, and political activist Bernadette Wilson. All are Republicans.






