KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
Wednesday (Today) is the last day that one candidate can replace another on the fall election ballot. Alaska senior Senator Lisa Murkowski, who lost the Republican primary in August, is weighing her options, but the reception has been cool from the Alaska Independence and Libertarian parties.
Locally, the man who won the District 36 Democratic primary, Andy Schroeder, has dropped out, and there is speculation that someone may take his place on the ballot. Party officials are not speaking on the record about it.
The man any Democratic candidate would face is incumbent Representative Alan Austerman. He said he would welcome a challenger so the issues can be debated.
— (Austerman 1 29 sec "I think we need some kind of … to listen to that.")
Other than a more spirited debate, Austerman said his campaign plans between now and the November 2nd General Election will be the same whether or not he has an opponent.
— (Austerman 2 14 sec "I’ll still make plans … like the looks of them.")
Regarding Murkowski, Austerman said he’s not sure what her plans are:
— (Austerman 3 24 sec "She comes from a very strong … on a statewide race.")
Murkowski was beaten by Joe Miller of Fairbanks, who ran with the heavy support of the Tea Party, a well-funded movement of ultra-conservatives. While Austerman is seen as a moderate, he does agree with at least one plank of the Tea Party’s platform.
— (Austerman 4 47 sec "I’m more of a middle line … not be in that position yet.")
The Kodiak Democratic Party may have an announcement tomorrow (today) as to a possible challenger for Austerman, so stay tuned to KMXT news for updates.
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