Forrest Dunbar

Forrest Dunbar is an American politician, attorney, and military officer currently serving as a member of the Alaska State Senate, representing District J, which encompasses East Anchorage. A member of the Democratic Party, Dunbar has a background in public service that includes a tenure on the Anchorage Assembly and a campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives. His professional experience also includes military service as a major and Judge Advocate in the Alaska Army National Guard. Dunbar's educational background features degrees from prestigious institutions and a commitment to community service, including a stint as a Peace Corps volunteer.

Early life and career

Forrest Dunbar was born on September 19, 1984, and spent his formative years in Alaska. He grew up in Eagle, located along the Yukon River, and later in Cordova, which lies on Prince William Sound. His family moved to Fairbanks in the late 1970s when his parents enrolled at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. His father, Roger, worked as a fisheries technician for the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, while his mother, Miriam, contributed to the community as a special education aide and librarian.

Dunbar pursued higher education at American University in Washington, D.C., where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and International Service. His academic achievements included receiving the Harry S. Truman Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding students committed to public service. He furthered his education by obtaining a dual degree in Master of Public Policy and Juris Doctor from the Harvard Kennedy School and Yale Law School, respectively.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Dunbar's commitment to public service was evident during his time as a Peace Corps volunteer in Kazakhstan. His experiences in the Peace Corps, along with his internships for notable political figures such as Governor Frank Murkowski and U.S. House delegate Madeleine Bordallo, helped shape his understanding of civil service and inspired him to pursue a career in politics. During his internship in Washington, D.C., he participated in peace marches opposing the Iraq War, which further solidified his dedication to public service.

Legislative service

Dunbar's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Anchorage Assembly in 2016, where he represented the fifth district, covering the eastern portion of the city. He won his initial election by defeating his opponent, Terre Gales, with a significant majority of the vote. Dunbar was subsequently re-elected twice, first in 2019 without opposition and again in 2022, where he secured 55.4% of the vote against Stephanie Taylor. By the time he concluded his service on the Assembly, he was one of the longest-serving members, second only to Pete Petersen.

During his tenure on the Anchorage Assembly, Dunbar focused on various issues that he believed were critical to the community, including job creation, quality of life improvements, and public safety enhancements. He advocated for the expansion of the Anchorage Police Department and sought to increase the city's budget for snow removal. Additionally, he worked to secure funding for infrastructure improvements in his district, which included road upgrades, drainage improvements, and enhancements to local parks such as Russian Jack Springs Park. His leadership capabilities were recognized when he served as the assembly chair, overseeing budgetary matters and the city's response to significant events, including the 2018 earthquake.

In 2021, Dunbar announced his candidacy for mayor of Anchorage, aiming to succeed the term-limited mayor Ethan Berkowitz. The political landscape shifted when Berkowitz resigned, leaving the race open. Dunbar's campaign garnered significant financial support and endorsements from several local labor unions, positioning him as a front-runner among a diverse field of candidates. However, the election did not yield a clear victor in the first round, leading to a runoff against retired Air Force pilot Dave Bronson. The runoff was closely contested, with Bronson ultimately winning by a narrow margin.

Following his mayoral campaign, Dunbar turned his attention to the Alaska State Senate. The redistricting process following the 2020 United States census resulted in the creation of a new Senate district that included much of East Anchorage and Mountain View. With State Representative Ivy Spohnholz opting not to run for the Senate seat, Dunbar was the first candidate to file for the 2022 election. He faced Republican Andrew Satterfield and Democratic State Representative Geran Tarr in the general election. Dunbar secured a narrow victory, winning outright with 50% of the vote and avoiding an instant runoff.

Dunbar was officially seated in the Alaska State Legislature on January 17, 2023. He joined a bipartisan majority coalition, which included both Democrats and Republicans. In the 2024 election, he was re-elected, and the coalition maintained control of the Senate, albeit with a reduced majority. His legislative responsibilities continued alongside his military service, as he was deployed to Poland in the summer of 2025. Despite this deployment, he was able to obtain a federal waiver to attend a special session called by Governor Mike Dunleavy, during which the legislature successfully overrode a veto concerning education funding.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his political career, Dunbar has consistently emphasized issues that resonate with his constituents in East Anchorage. His policy focus includes enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, and fostering economic development. As a member of the Alaska State Senate, he has continued to advocate for these priorities while also addressing the unique needs of his district.

Dunbar's commitment to public safety is reflected in his support for expanding the Anchorage Police Department and ensuring that law enforcement has the necessary resources to effectively serve the community. He has also prioritized quality of life initiatives, which encompass a wide range of services and programs aimed at improving the overall well-being of residents in his district.

Infrastructure development is another key area of focus for Dunbar. He has worked to secure funding for essential projects that enhance transportation, drainage, and public spaces within East Anchorage. His efforts to improve local parks and recreational facilities demonstrate his dedication to creating a vibrant and accessible community for all residents.

Dunbar's personal background and values also inform his approach to public service. He practices Judaism and is guided by the principle of tikkun olam, which emphasizes the importance of repairing the world through social justice and community engagement. His family history, including the experiences of his late grandmother, a Holocaust survivor, has shaped his perspective on civic responsibility and the importance of advocating for marginalized communities.

In his personal life, Dunbar resides in Anchorage and has a sister. He married Tasha Boyer, a consultant, in July 2024. His diverse experiences, both in Alaska and abroad, continue to influence his legislative priorities and commitment to serving the people of his district.