Committee advances bill to add presidential write-in line to Alaska ballot

The House Judiciary Committee on Feb. 26 reported House Bill 4 out of committee after a short discussion in which supporters said the measure would provide an additional presidential write-in slot on the ballot.

Sponsor remarks were brief. Representative Dan Sandler said the committee had a "robust conversation" at the prior meeting and offered light-hearted support for allowing voters additional expression on the ballot. Representative Mina told the committee she reviewed the ballot and believes there is space to add another line for a write-in vote: "I looked at the ballot, and it looks like there's space to put another line for the right and vote. So I think it makes sense." Representative Copp praised the bill as reflecting the independent spirit of Alaskans.

With no amendments filed, a committee member moved that HB 4 be reported out of the Judiciary Committee with individual recommendations and an attached fiscal note; hearing no objection, the chair reported HB 4 out of committee and authorized legislative legal services to make any necessary technical and conforming changes.

The committee did not record a roll-call vote on the motion; the action was carried by voice as reported on the record.