Local organizations in Bristol Bay and throughout Alaska are working together to encourage Alaska Native people to make their voices heard in this November’s election. While turnout in our communities was once exceptionally strong, about nine in ten voters in the 1980s—participation has steadily declined. Even with Bristol Bay now having nearly twice as many registered voters as it did in 1982, fewer people are casting their ballots. 

United Tribes of Bristol Bay (UTBB) and partners like Get Out the Native Vote (GOTNV) are helping ensure community members understand their voting options. Because voting methods can vary from village to village, having clear, locally relevant information is essential to supporting participation. 

For those attending the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention in Anchorage from October 22–24, voting will be especially accessible. City Hall will have ballots for all 40 House districts located directly across the street from the Dena’ina Center, making it easy for attendees to vote early while they are in town. 

2026 Alaska General Election Dates

• October 19: Early Voting Begins
• October 24: Deadline to Request an Absentee‑By‑Mail Ballot
• November 2: 5:00 p.m. Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot Online or by Fax
• November 3: Election Day (Polls open 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) 

Mailed absentee ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day or delivered to a polling place or elections office by 8:00 p.m. If mailing on Election Day, ask a postal worker to hand‑cancel the envelope to ensure the correct postmark. 

Resources 

• Register to Vote or Update Your Voter Registration: voterregistration.alaska.gov
• Alaska Division of Elections: elections.alaska.gov
• Alaska Federation of Natives: www.nativefederation.org/make-your-plan-to-vote
• United Tribes of Bristol Bay: www.utbb.org
• Voter Guide:  https://www.utbb.org/blog/voter-guide-2026
• Ranked-Choice Voting: https://www.utbb.org/blog/preparing-to-vote-ranked-choice-voting-explained
• Bristol Bay Turnout Creators Contest: https://www.utbb.org/events/gotv-content
• Community Voter Turnout Contest: https://www.utbb.org/events/community-gotv-contest