Democrat Mary Peltola, the first Alaska Native to serve in the U.S. Congress, has conceded to Republican Nick Begich in Alaska's At-Large Congressional District.
Peltola, who is Yup’ik, was seeking re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives. But the latest results from the Alaska Division of Elections showed her falling short after ranked choices were taken into account. [PDF: 11/20/2024 18:09:17]
Peltola posted a statement on social media on the evening of November 20, 2024. The full statement follows:
Working for Alaska as a member of our federal delegation has been the honor of my life. Thank you all for that opportunity. I'll tell you, working for all of Alaska isn't easy. Some say we have six regions; others say twelve distinct regions, cultures, and communities with unique and sometimes conflicting needs.
The path ahead will not be built by one person or three people working for all of Alaska but by all Alaskans working together to build a future that works for all of us. No one in the Lower 48 is coming to save us. It's up to us. As I close out this campaign and term in Congress, I want to thank my family and staff. Your sacrifices for Alaska might go unseen by most, but we all know their impact.
To both my Campaign and Congressional teams, thank you. You've lifted me up during difficult times. You achieved generational wins for Alaska. You brought so many new people into the Alaska political process. You amplified Alaskans’ voices across the country. And you made fish a national issue. I am forever thankful to all of you for that.
Nick, I'm rooting for you. Please don't forget when DC people keep telling you that you are one of three, you are actually one of more than seven hundred thousand Alaskans who are ready to fight for our state, myself included.
Begich had declared victory last week, on November 16, 2024. He issued a second statement on November 20, 2024, after the ranked choice voting results were tabulated by the Alaska Division of Elections:
The Ranked Choice Voting tabulation has been completed and has confirmed our win beyond any residual doubt. I am truly honored to have earned your trust and support.
Alaska’s potential is unmatched, but much work remains for Alaskans to fully realize that potential. I am committed to fighting for our jobs and economy, protecting our unique way of life, and ensuring that our voices are heard loud and clear in Washington.
Together, we will tackle the challenges ahead and build opportunities for every Alaskan—because this is about much more than politics; it’s about improving the lives of all Alaskans who call our incredible state home.
I’d like to thank Congresswoman Mary Peltola for her service to the state and nation in what is an exceptionally challenging role during an exceptionally challenging moment in our national history. To my fellow Alaskans, thank you again for the opportunity to serve you. The work continues and a brighter future begins.
For Alaska,
Nick Begich
Begich will be sworn into office at the start of the 119th Congress, which is scheduled to begin on January 3, 2025.