A trio of left-leaning media outlets have agreed to host a live debate on whether Alaskans should vote in favor of calling a statewide constitutional convention. Every 10 years, Alaskans have to opportunity to vote on this issue. The next opportunity is Nov. 8.
Convention advocates say it is the best opportunity – and perhaps the only viable way – to protect the Permanent Fund Dividend, address judicial overreach, enact election reform, expand school choice and advance other key issues which the State Legislature has failed to address.
Those opposed to the convention, which includes Alaska’s Democratic Party, say it’s too risky and could fundamentally change the political landscape of Alaska.
The Sept. 29 event will feature pro-convention debaters, Bob Bird (Alaska Independence Party Chairman) and Loren Leman (former Alaska Lt. Governor). The anti-convention team consists of Joelle Hall (President Alaska AFL-CIO) and Matt Shuckerow (Owner Fathom Strategic Communications).
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The debate starts at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at the Wendy Williamson Auditorium. Free and open to the public, the event will be moderated Lori Townsend (Alaska Public Media) and will include questions via a panel of reporters from Alaska Public Media, Anchorage Daily News and Alaska Beacon.
In addition to watching in-person, viewers can see the debate live streamed on Alaska Public Media YouTube and the Alaska Public Media Facebook page. A replay of the debate will air on KTOO 360TV at 8:30 p.m.
This past February, the Alaska Watchman hosted a constitutional convention debate between Bob Bird and former State Sen. John Coghill. That debate can be viewed here.
10 Comments
As the 29th of September is the feast day of the Archangels, it should be a great battle. St Michael pray for us!
I think it would be better if the non-media public would be included in the questions.. Nothing like having the “news” ? media” ? running the show.
vote convention yes. theres no debate. all arguements against it are fear based and moot. Fix Alaska now or watch it become Anchorage.
The media sure is inundated with anti-CC ads, all misleading of course and I’m sure funded by dark money, it would be great to hear some positive CC ads
Our Country is already violating the Constitution. A run away Justice Department and weaponized FBI, weaponized IRS, if people would realize “morals in our lives matter in running businesses, Courts, City Halls, Immoral society will fail, the USA is in Great Debt.Crime everywhere. It’s like this social contract is over.The 2020 elections were stolen,cheated. Alaska is corrupt
Having Alaska Public Media, Anchorage Daily News and Alaska Beacon. With their over-the-top biased views and crazy liberal thinking is really a trap for the folks supporting the call for a convention. These 3 outfits will certainly make every attempt to screw up the works and make the conservative side look like pasty’s.
These 3 media darlings, overstuffed bozos are paid to LIE
Agreed.
The conservative side should make the point that if the libs want the “right to choose” they should ALL be in favor of an AK Constitutional Convention.
Why are the democrats/RINO’s so afraid of people making the constitution more free and flexible to serve the people? You can bet your rear end there are PLENTY of “cons” who want the status quo to go on forever. Slam that door in their face! The Alaskan Constitution is meant to keep both parties and all government in check, which in turn preserves the freedoms and rights of ALL non-politicians!
Alaska Constitutional Conversation 111% YES!!!
It’s an awfully BIG assumption that a Constitutional Convention will lead to a “more free and flexible” outcome which will “serve the people.” In recent elections, those who support freedom have been the losers. Alaska is one of the most corrupt states for elections with more people voting than registered to vote in the last presidential election. Wisdom means making sure you have the soldiers needed for victory BEFORE charging into battle. There are many less-risky avenues to keep the government in check, which apathetic “conservatives” have failed to pursue. Why should we have confidence that these same supposed fearless freedom fighters will win the victory when we credulously open the Constitution for a re-write?
Nicole, clearly you’re not fearless or a fighter. Status quo seems to be ok with you. You presented no possible resolutions to our problems, just a very ambiguous “other less-risky solutions” and criticism. That’s ok, your comments sound like you’re one of those “apathetic conservatives” of whom you speak. Lastly, you will never win ANY battle you never fight, regardless of numbers. End of lesson.
Why is Alaska Watchman removing innocuous replies? My two recent comments have been completely removed.