Alaska’s Privacy Leak: A Big Mistake with Big Consequences

Alaska protects the privacy of voter information, stipulating that details such as ages, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and birthplaces remain confidential unless a valid reason exists. The law also allows voters to keep their home addresses private.

What Happened

• Data Handed Over: Alaska’s Governor Mike Dunleavy, Lieutenant Governor Nancy Dahlstrom, and temporary Attorney General Stephen Cox supplied a large amount of private voter data to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) at its request.
• Legal Conflict: Courts have ruled that the DOJ lacks authority to obtain these records, yet the data was transferred without a legal mandate.
• Official Stance: Officials claim compliance with state law and a thorough review prior to submission.
• Agreement Details: The written agreement states that Alaska will remove voters deemed ineligible and then send the updated list to the DOJ for verification, effectively shifting responsibility from Alaska’s elections office to federal authorities.

Concerns Raised

• Privacy Safeguards Missing: The agreement lacks protective measures for voters’ personal data.
• Accountability Gap: Leaders approving the deal have faced no repercussions, raising questions about their policy of acquiescing to federal requests.
• Trust Issues: Voters may doubt that their information will remain confidential.

Takeaway

Even with strict state privacy laws, officials can still erode protections. Voters should stay informed and demand transparency about how their personal data is managed.