Harris Steps Up as Biden Exits; Juneau Police Shooting Sparks Outrage

Local First News (News of the North)

In a dramatic shift just months before the election, President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the 2024 race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. Harris is quickly securing support from key Democratic figures and preparing for a high-stakes campaign against Donald Trump.

The search continues for a Beechcraft Bonanza that vanished over Southeast Alaska with three people on board. The Coast Guard and local authorities are focusing their efforts around Mount Crillon, hoping for a positive outcome.

Anchorage Police are implementing a new policy requiring the release of body-worn camera footage from officer-involved shootings within 45 days, with families able to view the footage within 14 days. This policy aims to increase transparency and accountability.

The community in Juneau is rallying against police actions following the shooting death of Steven Kissack, a man experiencing homelessness. Protesters are questioning the use of force and calling for justice as the investigation continues.

A state court has disqualified several booklets used to gather signatures for an initiative to repeal Alaska’s ranked-choice voting system. The ruling impacts the ballot status of the repeal measure, with the Division of Elections now recalculating signature validity.

A new forecast projects Alaska’s population will decline by nearly 2% by 2050, driven by outmigration, rising death rates, and falling birth rates. The forecast highlights significant challenges for urban planning and potential regional disparities.