Alaska Lawsuit Challenges Sharing of Voter Data with DOJ

Voting and civil rights organizations, including the League of Women Voters of Alaska and the Alaska Black Caucus, have filed a lawsuit against Alaska elections officials, alleging that the state’s sharing of its full voter registration list with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) violates the Alaska Constitution. The lawsuit, initiated on April 19, 2026, claims that the release of personal voter information, such as names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers, infringes on the right to privacy and due process.

KUBD - KetchikanGroups sue Alaska election officials, allege the sharing of voter data with DOJ was unconstitutional

In December 2025, Alaska provided the DOJ with a complete list of eligible registered voters following a federal request linked to compliance with the National Voter Registration Act. The DOJ's request aimed to evaluate and enforce compliance with the Help America Vote Act (HAVA). However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential misuse of this data, particularly regarding the DOJ's ability to flag voters for removal without adequate notice or a process for challenging such decisions.

KUBD - Ketchikan

The lawsuit names Republican Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom, who oversees the Division of Elections, and Carol Beecher, the division's director, as defendants. Both officials have defended the state's actions, asserting that they complied with federal requirements and state law. Rachel Witty, an attorney with the state Department of Law, emphasized the state's "compelling interest" in maintaining accurate voter rolls.

KUBD - Ketchikan

Critics argue that the agreement with the DOJ represents federal overreach and poses a threat to voter privacy. Eric Glatt, legal director for the ACLU of Alaska, stated, “Rather than fiercely defending the rights of Alaska’s voters, our Division of Elections acceded to federal overreach.” Yolandous “Doyle” Williams, Board Chairman for the Alaska Black Caucus, expressed concern that sharing unredacted voter data could silence the voices of those who fought for their voting rights.

KUBD - KetchikanGroups sue Alaska election officials, allege the sharing of voter data with DOJ was unconstitutional

The Alaska Department of Law has indicated that state law allows for the sharing of confidential information with law enforcement for authorized governmental purposes. Sam Curtis, a spokesperson for the department, noted that the state would defend its actions based on existing statutes. However, the plaintiffs are seeking a court ruling to void the agreement with the DOJ and ensure the destruction of any shared data.

Groups sue Alaska election officials, allege the sharing of voter data with DOJ was unconstitutional

The lawsuit is part of a broader national context, with at least four federal lawsuits filed across the United States aimed at halting the DOJ's collection of unredacted voter registration files. The outcome of the Alaska case could have significant implications for voter privacy rights and the integrity of election processes in the state.

Groups sue Alaska election officials, allege the sharing of voter data with DOJ was unconstitutional

• “Protecting voters’ confidential information is a non-partisan issue,” — Marianne Mills, Co-President, League of Women Voters of Alaska

KUBD - Ketchikan

• “Sharing unredacted voter registration data not only invades the privacy of Alaskans but also threatens to silence the voices of those who have fought tirelessly for their right to vote.” — Yolandous “Doyle” Williams, Board Chairman, Alaska Black Caucus

KUBD - Ketchikan

• “To ensure the integrity of elections, there was a mutual interest in maintaining voters rolls that were accurate and current,” — Rachel Witty, Attorney, Alaska Department of Law

Groups sue Alaska election officials, allege the sharing of voter data with DOJ was unconstitutional