May 21, 2026, Seward Folly

Commentary by Sheila Morrow

May 12 saw Seward’s first organizational gathering in support of electing Mary Peltola for  U.S. Senate. Assisted by staff from Peltola’s campaign, a roomful of local folks shared their deep concerns and desire for political change. The goal? Learn how to make that happen. 

Peltola’s representative spoke first about her priorities, including fixing corruption in D.C., establishing term limits, ending stock trading by congressional members, ending Citizens United, and more. Mary places intense focus on reducing the costs of food, health care, fuel, and other out-of-control daily expenses for Alaskans.  

While Tuesday’s gathering focused on the senate campaign, this grassroots movement is intended to be much greater than that by dovetailing with campaigns for governor, house seats, etc., after the August primaries are complete. The goal: build the biggest grassroots movement imaginable and keep it moving forward. It was noted that while currently Mary’s campaign bank account, the sum of donations under $100 each, is impressive, a big influx of republican money is expected to flood Alaska from out of state. 

After presenting the challenges, it was strongly emphasized that citizens must be involved for change to occur. The emphasis? There is a place for everyone to be involved.  Feel shy about knocking on doors or making phone calls? No problem, there are many behind-the-scenes jobs like getting fliers and signs out, hosting gatherings, and providing a night or a month of lodging for a visiting Peltola staff member. Training to make phone calls will also be provided, and the numbers on the contact list will not be random, but will be those of folks that just need to be encouraged to go to the polls (people notoriously skip the midterms), independents, etc. 

Seward, because we are the place that Alaskans come to play in the summer, has a particular opportunity to invite our neighbors to join this grassroots movement. 

If you have questions, or want to know how to be involved, email  

sewarddemocracy@gmail.com