Tom Begich, former Democratic state senator and son of the late US Rep Nick Begich Sr., has filed a letter of intent to run for Alaska governor. The letter enables him to begin campaign preparations but does not formally launch his candidacy.
The Democrat emphasized that this step is exploratory, and his decision to move forward depends on whether US Mary Peltola enters the race. Begich, 64, said that he promised Peltola that if she chooses to run for governor, he will step aside.
Begich was 11 when his father disappeared in a 1972 plane crash and credits his mother, Pegge Begich, for shaping his values. He emphasized his desire to present a vision for Alaska and connect with voters directly.
Begich acknowledged the changing political landscape and his family’s diverse political affiliations. His brother Mark Begich served as a Democratic US senator from 2009 to 2015. Last year, his nephew Nick Begich III, a Republican, became the first member of the Begich family to win statewide office under the GOP banner.
Tom Begich said he hasn’t supported his nephew’s campaigns, emphasizing the importance of individual beliefs. Furthermore, Peltola has not announced whether she plans to run for governor, the US Senate or seek reelection to the US House.
