Alaska representative for North Slope and Northwest Arctic says he’s not running for reelection

Rep. John Lincoln, D-Kotzebue, takes an oath during his swearing-in ceremony in the Alaska House of Representatives on Jan. 31, 2018.
Rep. John Lincoln, I-Kotzebue, takes an oath during his swearing-in ceremony in the Alaska House of Representatives on Jan. 31, 2018. On Thursday, Lincoln announced via Facebook that he would not seek reelection. (Photo by Skip Gray/KTOO)

The Alaska representative who represents the Northwest Arctic and North Slope boroughs says he will not run for reelection.

In a Facebook post, John Lincoln, an independent from Kotzebue, wrote, “I’m at a stage in life – as a husband and father of young children – that makes it extremely important for me to be present and to provide for my family.”

https://www.facebook.com/RepJohnLincoln/posts/2909052379155316

He said he plans to return to work for NANA Regional Corp. after his term ends.

Lincoln has served in the Alaska House of Representatives since 2018, when he was appointed to replace Dean Westlake of Kiana. Westlake resigned after multiple sexual harassment allegations were made against him from legislative aides and other women.

Initially a Democrat, Lincoln dropped his party affiliation late last year. He serves in the bipartisan House Majority, and is co-chair of the House Resources Committee.

So far, Ely Cyrus of Kiana is currently the only person who has filed to run for House seat 40.

The deadline to file to run for Lincoln’s seat in June 1, 2020.

KOTZ - Kotzebue

KOTZ is our partner station in Kotzebue. KTOO collaborates with partners across the state to cover important news and to share stories with our audiences.

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