Eagle River State Republican Senate candidate Sharon Jackson, who finished last in the August primary, has endorsed Republican Jared Goecker, the leading challenger to Senator Kelly Merrick.

Republicans Goecker and Ken McCarty and Democrat Lee Hammermeister will run alongside incumbent Merrick in November, who faces her toughest election campaign yet.

The primary election results favored Goecker, who was only 43 votes behind the well-funded, union-backed Merrick, who eventually formed a Democratic-led majority in the Senate.

Goecker announced this in a press release.

“My goal has always been to support politicians who defend our values ​​and work tirelessly to improve Alaska. After Tuesday night’s primary results, it is clear to me that we must rally behind a single conservative to reclaim this seat,” said Jackson, who served one term as a state representative.

Jackson praised Jared Goecker for his commitment to conservative principles and proven leadership.

“Jared Goecker embodies the qualities essential to effective representation in the Alaska State Senate. His commitment to accountability, tough policies on crime, fiscal responsibility and individual freedoms align perfectly with the vision we have been working toward. I am confident he will be a strong advocate for our shared Chugiak and Eagle River values ​​and diligently serve the needs of Alaskans,” she said.

“I am honored to have Sharon Jackson’s endorsement,” said Goecker. “Her commitment to our community and her advocacy for conservative principles have been an inspiration to many. I will carry on her legacy and fight for the issues that matter most to the people of Alaska.”

Jackson’s withdrawal and endorsement are an important moment in the race for the state Senate seat because her support should boost Goecker’s campaign and help consolidate conservatives and defeat leftist Kelly Merrick, Goecker said.

For Chugiak-Eagle River, the election remains a crucial opportunity to elect a senator who represents their values ​​and will address the challenges facing the state, his campaign team said.