Inmate in New York prison advances in Alaska primary

Eric Hafner, serving a prison sentence in a federal prison in New York, successfully advanced to the next round from the primaries held for Alaska's single US House seat, drawing attention.

Primary results and advancement

Eric Hafner, registered as a Democrat, emerged among the leading figures in the race with 5,757 votes as 93% of the ballots were counted.

Since third-place Democrat Matt Schultz withdrew from the general election race, he lost the right to advance, while the fourth-place candidate has not yet been finalized.

Past charges and prison sentence

Eric Hafner was found guilty in 2022 of making threats against police officers, judges, and other individuals.

While Hafner is expected to be released from the federal prison where he is serving his sentence in 2036, he continues his political activities from prison.

Legal barriers and residency controversies

Since the US Constitution requires candidates to reside in the state they will represent during the election process, this situation brings about new legal challenges.

Giving a South Dakota mailing address and a New York phone number on his candidacy documents, Hafner has no visible ties to Alaska.

Other candidates in the general election

According to Alaska's current electoral system, regardless of party affiliation, the top four primary candidates earn the right to advance directly to the general elections.

Among the other prominent figures in the race are Republican incumbent Representative Nick Begich and independent candidate Bill Hill.