Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins

Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins is a former American politician who served as a member of the Alaska House of Representatives from 2013 until 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, he represented the 34th district, which includes several Southeast Alaskan island communities such as Hoonah, Sitka, Kake, Klawock, Craig, Angoon, and Petersburg. Kreiss-Tomkins is noted for his legislative contributions, particularly in the area of language preservation and cultural recognition, as well as for his active engagement in political campaigns and community initiatives.

Early life and career

Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins was born on February 7, 1989. He grew up in Sitka, Alaska, where he developed an early interest in politics and community engagement. His involvement in political activism began during his high school years when he gained national attention as a prominent online organizer for the Howard Dean presidential campaign in 2003. This early experience in political organization likely influenced his later decision to enter public service.

Kreiss-Tomkins pursued higher education at Yale University, where he studied for three years before deciding to leave to run for a seat in the Alaska House of Representatives. His decision to withdraw from Yale reflects a commitment to public service and a desire to impact his local community directly. This choice was significant, as it marked the beginning of his political career and his dedication to representing the interests of his constituents in Alaska.

In addition to his political pursuits, Kreiss-Tomkins is an accomplished athlete. He is a long-distance runner and has participated in various endurance events. Notably, he won the Alpine Adventure Race in 2009 and secured second place in the Coyote Two Moon ultramarathon in 2010. His passion for running extended to his time at Yale, where he was involved in organizing a running club known as Harriers of the Night, which met weekly for midnight runs. Kreiss-Tomkins is also a mountaineer; in 2009, he climbed Ojos del Salado, the highest volcano in the world, to measure its height against a neighboring peak in Chile. These experiences reflect his adventurous spirit and commitment to physical challenges.

Legislative service

Kreiss-Tomkins's political career began in earnest with his election to the Alaska House of Representatives in 2012. Following the redistricting process that occurred after the 2010 census, he found himself in the newly drawn 34th district, which included his hometown of Sitka. With no other Democratic candidates entering the primary, Kreiss-Tomkins decided to run for the seat. His campaign was competitive, culminating in a narrow victory where he received 50.12% of the vote. The election results were finalized after a recount, which slightly reduced his margin of victory.

In the 2014 midterm elections, Kreiss-Tomkins was reelected to the House, this time representing the newly renumbered 35th district. His reelection campaign was more successful, as he garnered approximately 60% of the vote against his Republican opponent. This election solidified his position as a prominent figure in Alaska's political landscape.

During his time in the Alaska House of Representatives, Kreiss-Tomkins served on several key committees, including the House State Affairs Committee, where he held the position of chair, as well as the House Community & Regional Affairs, House Fisheries, and House Judiciary committees. His involvement in these committees allowed him to influence a range of legislative issues and contribute to the governance of Alaska.

One of Kreiss-Tomkins's notable legislative achievements was the sponsorship of House Bill 216, which was signed into law in 2014. This legislation made all twenty Native languages of Alaska official languages of the state, a significant step toward recognizing and preserving the cultural heritage of Alaska's Indigenous peoples. The bill received bipartisan support and was passed by large majorities in both chambers of the legislature, highlighting Kreiss-Tomkins's ability to work across party lines on important issues.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Kreiss-Tomkins focused on a variety of policy areas, with a particular emphasis on cultural preservation, education, and community development. His work on language preservation through House Bill 216 reflects his commitment to supporting Alaska's diverse cultural landscape. By making Native languages official, Kreiss-Tomkins aimed to promote greater awareness and appreciation of Alaska's Indigenous cultures, which have historically faced challenges in terms of recognition and support.

Kreiss-Tomkins's district, encompassing many Southeast island communities, presented unique challenges and opportunities. The region is characterized by its remote geography and reliance on fishing, tourism, and natural resources. As a representative, Kreiss-Tomkins was tasked with addressing the needs and concerns of his constituents, which included advocating for sustainable economic development and ensuring access to essential services.

In addition to his legislative duties, Kreiss-Tomkins was actively involved in community initiatives. He founded Outer Coast College, an educational institution aimed at providing innovative learning opportunities for students in Alaska. He also co-founded the Alaska Fellows Program, which supports young professionals in their career development while contributing to the local community. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, he co-founded Covid Act Now, an organization focused on providing timely information and resources to help communities navigate the public health crisis.

Kreiss-Tomkins's contributions to Alaska's political and social landscape have been recognized in various media outlets. Following his election in 2012, he was featured in The Nation and Politico for his potential to influence the political dynamics in Alaska. After the successful passage of his language preservation bill, The Washington Post included him in its "40 Under 40" list of American politicians, acknowledging his impact at a young age.

As of 2026, Kreiss-Tomkins announced his candidacy for the governorship of Alaska, signaling his continued commitment to public service and leadership within the state. His journey from a young political organizer to a state legislator and aspiring governor illustrates his dedication to addressing the needs of Alaskans and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.