Ray Metcalfe

Ray Metcalfe is a former American politician and political activist from Alaska, known for his service in the Alaska House of Representatives and his involvement in various political movements over the years. A member of the Republican Party during his initial political career, Metcalfe later founded the Republican Moderate Party of Alaska and subsequently transitioned to the Democratic Party. His political endeavors included multiple candidacies for state and federal offices, including a notable run for the United States Senate in 2016.

Early life and career

Ray Metcalfe was born on August 29, 1950, on the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana. His early life was marked by significant transitions; he left home at the age of 15 and spent several years traveling across the United States. During this time, he attended high schools in various cities and states, ultimately graduating from Billings Senior High School in Billings, Montana, in 1969. Following his graduation, Metcalfe made a pivotal decision to hitchhike to Alaska, arriving on June 5, 1969, with minimal possessions, including a bedroll, a backpack, and $52.

Upon arriving in Alaska, Metcalfe's life was characterized by a dual focus on work and education. He alternated between employment in the state's oil fields and pursuing higher education, studying business and history. In 1976, he established the Metcalfe Real Estate Company, which he continues to operate. This entrepreneurial venture laid the groundwork for his subsequent political career, as it provided him with a platform and resources to engage in public service and activism.

Legislative service

Ray Metcalfe's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Alaska House of Representatives as a member of the Republican Party. He served in this capacity from 1979 until 1983, during which time he was involved in legislative activities pertinent to his district and the state. Following his initial term, Metcalfe faced challenges in his political aspirations, including a loss in his bid to regain his seat in the House in 1982.

In 1986, Metcalfe founded the Republican Moderate Party of Alaska, motivated by his belief that the traditional Republican Party had been overtaken by the religious right. His formation of this party was a response to what he perceived as a shift away from moderate Republican values. The establishment of the Republican Moderate Party was met with legal challenges from the Alaska Republican Party, which sued Metcalfe for using the term "Republican" without authorization. Metcalfe successfully defended his right to form the party in Superior Court, where he was recognized as a "Public Litigant" advocating for free speech. This legal victory not only affirmed his position but also resulted in the Republican Party being ordered to cover his legal expenses.

Despite his efforts and the establishment of the Republican Moderate Party, Metcalfe's subsequent political campaigns for the Alaska House and the governor's office did not yield success. However, he garnered a notable percentage of the vote in the 1998 gubernatorial election, where he received over 6% of the total votes cast, amidst a divided Republican electorate.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his political career, Ray Metcalfe has been involved in various policy issues, reflecting his moderate Republican roots and later Democratic affiliations. His legislative focus during his time in the Alaska House of Representatives included economic development, resource management, and the promotion of ethical governance. Metcalfe's commitment to these issues continued beyond his time in the legislature, as he remained active in political advocacy and reform.

In the years following his service in the Alaska House, Metcalfe continued to engage in political activities, including running for office under different party affiliations. In 2006, he sought the Democratic nomination for Alaska's sole U.S. House seat, finishing second in the primary election. He also attempted to secure the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat held by Ted Stevens in 2008, but was unsuccessful in that bid as well.

Metcalfe's political journey culminated in his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in 2016, where he won the Democratic nomination to challenge incumbent Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski. In the general election, Metcalfe placed fourth, receiving 11% of the vote. His campaign was marked by a focus on issues relevant to Alaskan voters, including economic opportunities and ethical governance.

In 2020, Metcalfe sought the Republican nomination for District M in the Alaska Senate, where he again placed second, receiving approximately 24% of the vote. This continued engagement in the political landscape of Alaska underscores his enduring commitment to public service and political activism.

Ray Metcalfe's political career reflects a complex interplay of party affiliation, activism, and legislative service. His experiences and initiatives have contributed to the political discourse in Alaska, particularly around issues of party identity and governance. Through his various campaigns and the establishment of the Republican Moderate Party, Metcalfe has left a mark on the political landscape of the state, advocating for moderate values and ethical practices in governance.