A group of Alaska Republican Party (AKRP) members in the Mat-Su has filed a formal complaint against Steve Johnson, Chair of District 25, alleging bias, abuse of authority, and repeated violations of district rules and parliamentary procedure. The complaint, dated June 5, was submitted to AKRP State Chair Carmella Warfield and calls for an immediate investigation and potential removal from office.

The undersigned allege that Johnson demonstrated clear bias and obstructed fair participation in district processes.

A key allegation involves an apparent conflict of interest. Johnson allegedly blocked consideration of a vetted candidate who would challenge his wife, State Rep. DeLena Johnson, in an upcoming primary. The complaint claims that despite properly seconded motions and calls for recusal, Johnson refused. The complaint also claims he asserted the absence of a vetting tool until mid-July, then canceled a July meeting even after AKRP provided one, preventing endorsements before the August primary.

The document describes a broader “pattern of gatekeeping and exclusionary conduct,” asserting that Johnson has blocked matters, candidates, and leaders conflicting with his or his spouse’s political interests, effectively creating de facto control by the couple and limiting equal participation by district members.

Another allegation claims Johnson made a false statement at a public meeting attended by over 20 members, claiming he did not know the identities of precinct leaders and blaming the former chair for failing to provide information. According to the complaint, this is inaccurate because Johnson presided over the District Convention, where the precinct leaders were elected, giving him direct knowledge of their identities.

The complaint further alleges that Johnson refused to hear a properly presented motion to reconsider previously mishandled endorsements. The motion followed guidance and an email from Rules Chair Charlie Franz. Despite the issues occurring during his tenure, Johnson reportedly declined to allow debate or a vote without evidence that the endorsements were handled correctly.

Multiple instances of failing to follow Robert’s Rules of Order are alleged, including refusing to call seconded motions for debate or voting, and ruling a motion out of order solely due to personal disagreement with its content.

Additionally, Johnson is accused of refusing to seat eligible precinct leaders who were physically present and requested seating. The complaint notes there were no competing candidates for these positions and no existing leadership in the affected precincts. District rules reportedly require expeditious seating, and the refusals allegedly denied duly elected or eligible leaders their proper status and participation rights.

The complainants request an independent investigation, including review of minutes, sign-in sheets, emails, and other records. They seek temporary suspension of Johnson’s duties if needed, his removal if allegations are substantiated, remedial actions such as reseating leaders and reprocessing endorsements, and communication of findings to district members. They also demand immediate preservation of all relevant evidence.

Signatories include Joshua Hanson, Hannah Hanson, Dan Kurka, Lonnet Kurka, Pam Melin, Nan Potts, Dana Raphanelio, Kathleen Shoop, Desiree Terry, Tim Terry, and James Ziegler. The group states they acted in good faith based on recollections and available records and are prepared to provide sworn statements and additional evidence.

The complaint emphasizes the need to protect the integrity of district governance and restore member confidence in fair procedures.

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