Dunleavy supports constitutional convention; Walker and Gara do not

ANCHORAGE (AP) — Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy has indicated that he will vote in favor of calling a convention to consider amending the state constitution.

Candidates for governor at an Alaska Resource Development Council forum on Oct. 11 were asked during if they would be voting for a constitutional convention in next month's general election. Candidates responded by raising “yes” or “no” signs.

Dunleavy and Republican Charlie Pierce raised “yes” signs. Former Gov. Bill Walker, an independent, and Les Gara, a Democrat, raised “no” signs.

Alaska voters are asked every 10 years if there should be a constitutional convention. While the question has in the past been soundly defeated, both sides of the debate have been preparing for a fight this year.

Some convention supporters see an opening to push for changing the constitution amid public frustration over the size of the annual Permanent Fund dividend, and they want to see the PFD guaranteed in the constitution.

During a convention, delegates typically have free reign to propose revisions — or even entirely new constitutions — that would then go back to voters for ratification. Some of those pursuing a convention would like to restrict a woman’s right to an abortion or alter the process for selecting judges in a way that critics say could make the process more partisan.

Opponents of a convention warn against opening the constitution to revision in an era of stark political polarization.

The question will be on the Nov. 8 ballot.

Supporters of a convention have noted that any draft changes approved through a convention would need to go before Alaska voters, and if a majority didn't support them, they would be rejected. But convention opponents say that’s too risky and worry that outside special interests would seek to influence a convention.

Alaska AFL-CIO President Joelle Hall is with the group Defend Our Constitution, which opposes a convention. She said politically engaged Alaskans likely will not be surprised that Dunleavy announced he would vote yes on the convention question.

“I think we’ve made the case that it’s dangerous and unnecessary and expensive. And I guess the governor has to tell people why he thinks it’s safe to open it up. I just don't see the rationale.”