Jeremy Bynum

Jeremy Bynum was born in Portland, Oregon. Bynum's career experience includes working as a director. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1995 to 2000. Bynum earned a bachelor's degree from Portland State University in 2005.[1]

Bynum has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]

American Legion, Joseph T. Craig Post 3

First City Rotary

Navy League

Veterans of Foreign Wars

Ketchikan Area Arts and Humanities Council

Elks Lodge, Wrangell 1595

National Rifle Association

Wrangell Chamber of Commerce

Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Growing Up

Growing up in rural Oregon, I experienced firsthand the impact of industry changes on small communities. In the logging town of Roseburg, the decline of timber jobs pushed me to explore new career paths, eventually leading me to join the U.S. Air Force in 1995. This journey ultimately brought me to Ketchikan.

Military Service

In the U.S. Air Force, I began my career in energy as a power generation specialist, gaining experience during the Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo wars, and in Africa on humanitarian missions. After nearly six years of service, I pursued a degree in electrical engineering from Portland State University while serving in the Air National Guard, including a brief return to active duty after 9/11, graduating in 2005.

Engineering Career

Post-graduation, I worked as an engineer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Hydroelectric Design Center, engaging in hydropower projects across the U.S. and abroad. In 2010, I earned my Professional Engineer (PE) license and worked as a Senior Engineer and Design Manager.

Alaska is Home

Twelve years ago, I started spending summers in Ketchikan, eventually making it my permanent home in 2016 when a professional opportunity arose at the local utility. Currently, I serve as the Electric Division Manager for Ketchikan Public Utilities. My wife Carolyn and I cherish the community, enjoy the natural beauty, and participate in local events. We love island life and Ketchikan is now our home.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Housing: Essential for Stability and Growth

Investment in housing infrastructure not only benefits our residents but also strengthens our local economy by making all our communities more attractive places for businesses to thrive. Investing in infrastructure related to housing is essential for the long-term growth and prosperity of our community and will pay dividends for future generations.Supporting Education and Career Technical Education for Alaska's Future Workforce

Our future depends on education that focuses on the fundamentals. I believe a strong vocations program should be part of the Alaska education system; our kids deserve schools that will prepare them for Alaskan jobs.

I am committed to education funding, protecting school programs, increasing Career Technical Education (CTE) opportunities, and fostering teacher development. Ensuring adequate and stable long-term funding for education is essential for our community’s future; this includes a permanent increase in state funding, which is crucial to provide consistent support for our schools.Transportation in Southeast

Southeast Alaska communities depend on reliable and consistent ferry service. I will work to ensure the ferry system is protected and improved for future generations.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Budget Stability: Advocating for a stable, long-term budget that protects the Permanent Fund.

Public Safety: Enhancing public safety measures to protect residents and communities.

Natural Resource Development: Defending Alaskans' rights to develop.

Education: Supporting educational initiatives tailored to Alaska’s economy, with a particular focus on increasing technical trades in schools.

Commercial Fishing Industry: Protecting Alaska's fishing industries.

Conservative Values: Advancing conservative values to benefit Alaskan families, emphasizing individual responsibility and limited government intervention.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to Ronald Reagan and strive to follow his example. Reagan's leadership, commitment to conservative principles, and ability to communicate effectively resonate deeply with me. His dedication to limited government, individual liberties, and fiscal responsibility aligns with my own political philosophy. Reagan's ability to inspire others, foster economic growth, and promote national pride while maintaining strong defense policies is something I deeply respect. His legacy as a leader who brought about significant positive change while staying true to his core beliefs serves as a powerful example for my own public service.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

"The Conscience of a Conservative" by Barry Goldwater. This book lays out the principles of modern American conservatism, focusing on limited government, individual liberties, and fiscal responsibility.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity: Honesty and strong moral principles are crucial for maintaining public trust and making ethical decisions.

Transparency: Being open and clear about actions, decisions, and policies helps build trust and accountability.

Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and decisions, and being answerable to the public.

Commitment to Public Service: A genuine dedication to serving the community and prioritizing the public's best interests over personal or special interests.

Empathy: Understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of all constituents, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered.

Effective Communication: Clearly conveying information, listening to constituents, and fostering open dialogue.

Leadership: Inspiring and guiding others towards common goals, and making tough decisions when necessary.

Vision: Having a clear and strategic plan for the future, with goals that benefit the community and address long-term challenges.

Collaboration: Working effectively with other officials, organizations, and community members to achieve common objectives.

Resilience: Staying steadfast and adaptable in the face of challenges and setbacks, and continuously striving for improvement.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe that my combination of integrity, dedication, and strong leadership skills would make me a successful officeholder. My commitment to transparency and accountability ensures that I always act in the best interest of my constituents. With a background in electrical engineering and management, I possess the analytical skills and problem-solving abilities necessary to address complex issues effectively. My experience on the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly and various advisory councils has equipped me with a deep understanding of local and state government operations. Additionally, I have traveled to over 40 countries and been directly involved with humanitarian efforts and supported stabilization efforts in war zones, which have shaped my ideas of finding common solutions. My time spent in Afghanistan working to restore hydropower projects has given me a unique perspective on the importance of infrastructure and sustainable development. My ability to communicate clearly and work collaboratively with others allows me to build consensus and drive positive change. These qualities, coupled with my passion for public service and my dedication to the well-being of my community, position me to effectively represent and serve the people of Alaska.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities for someone elected to the Alaska House of Representatives include drafting, proposing, and voting on laws that address constituents' needs and support the state's economic, social, and environmental goals. This role involves acting as a liaison between constituents and the state government, assisting with issues related to public services and benefits. Budget oversight is crucial, ensuring fiscal responsibility and advocating for prudent financial management to protect the Permanent Fund and other resources. Policy advocacy is a key duty, championing policies that enhance public safety, support education, promote economic development, and protect Alaska’s natural resources. Community engagement through regular communication with constituents is essential for understanding their concerns and informing them about legislative activities. Collaboration with fellow legislators, state agencies, local governments, and community organizations is vital for addressing issues and implementing beneficial solutions. Public representation involves serving as the district's voice in the state legislature, ensuring the community's unique needs and interests are reflected in state policies. Maintaining high ethical standards, avoiding conflicts of interest, and acting in the public's best interest are imperative. Regulatory oversight ensures laws and regulations are effectively implemented and enforced, while long-term planning focuses on sustainable development and solutions for challenges such as economic diversification, healthcare, education, and infrastructure improvements.

What legacy would you like to leave?

First and foremost, I want to leave a legacy of collaborating with others to find solutions to big problems. Creating new ways of thinking about education in Alaska is a priority, revolutionizing our approach to include pathways for our kids to succeed in vocational learning. By integrating comprehensive technical and trade programs into our education system, we can equip young Alaskans with the skills needed for high-demand, well-paying jobs, enabling them to thrive within our local economy. Additionally, I aspire for Alaska to become a world leader in renewable water energy projects. By leveraging our abundant natural resources and advancing sustainable energy solutions, we can ensure long-term economic growth and environmental stewardship, positioning Alaska at the forefront of innovative energy development. This collaborative approach to tackling major challenges will enhance the quality of life for future generations and set a standard for others to follow.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event I remember is the Challenger disaster in 1986. I was ten years old at the time, and the disaster left a lasting impression on me.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was as a busboy and dishwasher at the Apple Peddler Diner Restaurant when I was 15 years old. I worked there for the summer, gaining valuable experience in hard work and responsibility at a young age.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is "12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos" by Jordan Peterson. This book resonates with me because it focuses on the importance of personal responsibility and self-improvement. The practical advice and philosophical insights provided in the book remind me of my journey, emphasizing that by becoming better individuals, we can positively impact those around us and contribute to a more orderly and meaningful life.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be any fictional character, I would choose to be Sherlock Holmes. Holmes's exceptional intellect, keen observational skills, and unmatched ability to solve complex mysteries are qualities I greatly admire. His dedication to uncovering the truth and his relentless pursuit of justice resonate with my own commitment to problem-solving and making a positive impact. Plus, his unique way of seeing the world and his methodical approach to challenges are fascinating.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

The last song that got stuck in my head was Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues."

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One significant struggle in my life has been coming from a lower economic background where I didn't think college or a successful profession was possible. Overcoming this thought after leaving high school and realizing that I could contribute in a meaningful way has been a profound journey. Despite the challenges, I persevered and pursued practical trades education in the Air Force and then engineering in college, ultimately proving to myself that with determination and hard work, I could achieve my goals and make a positive impact in my community. This experience has instilled in me a deep commitment to creating opportunities for others, particularly in vocational and technical education, so they too can realize their potential and succeed.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be collaborative, respectful, and balanced, characterized by clear communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the best interests of the people. Both branches must work together as partners, respecting each other's roles and responsibilities while engaging in constructive debate and compromise. Open communication and transparency are crucial for maintaining accountability and fostering a productive working environment. By aligning on common goals such as economic growth, public safety, and resource management, the governor and the legislature can effectively address the state's challenges and improve the lives of its residents.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, Alaska's greatest challenges will be ensuring a stable fiscal plan, advancing energy development, and expanding economic opportunities. Establishing a sustainable and balanced budget is critical, which includes protecting the Permanent Fund and addressing budget deficits responsibly. Leveraging our oil and gas resources while diversifying energy sources and investing in renewable energy will be key to securing long-term energy stability and economic growth. Expanding economic opportunities through the development of sectors such as tourism, fisheries, and technology, alongside improving infrastructure and education, will foster job creation and economic resilience.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes, I believe it is beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics. Such experience provides valuable insights into the legislative process, an understanding of how government functions, and familiarity with the complexities of policymaking. Experience at the local level, in particular, helps shape a vision of how the state legislature impacts local communities, providing a grounded perspective on the real-world effects of legislation.

It is also important to note that prior experience as an elected official is not the only way to be prepared for a legislative role. Business-oriented individuals who actively follow the political process can bring a valuable viewpoint to legislation. Their practical experience in managing organizations, understanding economic principles, and navigating regulatory environments can contribute significantly to effective policymaking. While fresh perspectives are always valuable, a background in government, politics, or business can enhance a legislator's ability to make informed decisions and implement policies that benefit the state.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Yes, I believe it is highly beneficial to build relationships with other legislators. Strong relationships foster collaboration, trust, and mutual respect, which are essential for effective governance. By working closely with my fellow legislators, I can facilitate the exchange of ideas and perspectives, leading to more comprehensive and well-rounded policies. Collaborative efforts can bridge partisan divides and promote bipartisan solutions to complex issues. Building relationships also allows me to garner support for my initiatives, making it easier to advocate for my constituents and pass meaningful legislation.

Additionally, having relationships with other legislators provides me access to a broader range of knowledge, expertise, and resources, enhancing decision-making and improving the quality of legislation. Strong relationships help in resolving conflicts and negotiating compromises, as legislators who know and respect each other are more likely to engage in constructive dialogue and find common ground.

Building enduring relationships creates a network of allies and collaborators who can support long-term goals and initiatives, contributing to sustained progress on important issues. In summary, building relationships with other legislators is crucial for fostering a collaborative, efficient, and effective legislative environment that benefits the state and its residents.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

At this time, my focus is entirely on addressing the current challenges we face and serving the needs of my constituents in the Alaska House of Representatives. While I am dedicated to public service and always open to new opportunities to make a positive impact, my priority remains tackling the pressing issues that affect our community today. Ensuring a stable fiscal plan, advancing energy development, and expanding economic opportunities are my main goals, and I am committed to working diligently towards these objectives.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

One story that has particularly touched and inspired me is about a local young person who had a passion for working with engines. This individual dedicated themselves to learning and honing their skills at the local level, putting in the hard work necessary to excel in a trade. Today, they are making a significant impact at a local company, demonstrating the immense value of trade skills in our community. This story highlights the critical need for an education system that fosters and guides our kids toward trade work, which is in high demand and offers good pay. By supporting educational initiatives that emphasize technical trades, we can ensure that our young people have the opportunity to succeed and thrive right here at home, contributing to and benefiting from our local economy.

Tell us your favorite joke.

I enjoy storytelling in comedy, so I don't really have one favorite joke. However, I do appreciate clever humor that combines wit and a bit of intellectual play.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

The legislature should oversee and grant the use of emergency powers, ensuring they are limited and reserved for extreme emergencies such as natural disasters. This system of checks and balances maintains accountability and prevents the abuse of power. While it is crucial for the executive branch to respond swiftly during such emergencies, legislative oversight ensures that these powers are used appropriately and only for as long as necessary. Under the Alaska Disaster Act, the governor can declare a disaster emergency when extreme peril exists, granting certain powers to manage the situation effectively. The legislature retains the authority to oversee these actions and can terminate a state of emergency at any time by passing a concurrent resolution. The Act specifies that a state of emergency can last up to 30 days unless extended by the legislature, ensuring regular review and renewal. Additionally, the governor must provide regular updates to the legislature and the public, maintaining transparency and accountability. Legislators can also provide input and oversight, representing the public's concerns. By overseeing and limiting emergency powers to extreme situations like natural disasters, the legislature ensures that the response is effective, accountable, and aligned with democratic principles, protecting the rights and freedoms of Alaskans while allowing for a swift and coordinated response to crises.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

If elected, I don't want to limit my options, but I am working on a few ideas for the first bill I would introduce. One of my key priorities is to support the development of technical trade programs in our education system, which would help prepare our youth for high-demand jobs and support local economic growth.

What committees interest you?

Finance Committee: Serving on the Finance Committee is essential for overseeing the state’s budget, expenditures, and fiscal policies. My background equips me with the analytical skills needed to understand complex financial matters.

Resources Committee: The Resources Committee aligns with my dedication to defending Alaska's rights to develop its natural resources responsibly. With my professional experience in the energy sector, I have a deep understanding of energy and natural resource issues.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I strongly believe in the importance of financial transparency and government accountability. These principles are fundamental to maintaining public trust and ensuring that government operations serve the best interests of the people.

Financial Transparency: Transparency in government finances is essential for fostering trust between the government and its citizens. It involves openly sharing information about how taxpayer money is being spent, the sources of government revenue, and the financial health of public institutions. By making this information readily available and easily accessible, we empower citizens to hold their government accountable for its financial decisions. This transparency helps prevent corruption, mismanagement, and waste of public resources, ensuring that funds are used effectively and efficiently.

Government Accountability: Accountability means that government officials are answerable for their actions and decisions. It requires a system where there are clear standards and expectations, regular performance evaluations, and consequences for misconduct or failure to meet responsibilities. Elected officials, in particular, must be responsive to their constituents, acting in the public's best interest and making decisions that reflect the will and needs of the people they serve. Accountability mechanisms, such as audits, oversight committees, and whistleblower protections, are crucial for detecting and addressing any instances of corruption or incompetence.

Together, financial transparency and government accountability create a robust framework for ethical governance. They ensure that public resources are managed wisely, decisions are made in the open, and officials are held responsible for their actions. By upholding these principles, we can build a more trustworthy, effective, and responsive government.

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

I do not have any issues with the current state ballot initiative process. It serves as an important tool, allowing citizens to propose and vote on laws directly.

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