Last month, the Anchorage Assembly—led by a Democratic majority—voted to increase tariffs as part of the Port of Alaska Modernization Program. The goal? To fund upgrades to the Don Young Port. Alaskans need imports. This is true. But why don’t the corporations who will make millions on this Port pay for it?
Because, well, Democrats suck too. Yes, the same Democrats who blast Trump for his plan to levy tariffs (which is objectively way worse) have decided that the best way to pay for port upgrades is by making it even more expensive to import goods into Alaska. You can’t have it both ways, folks. Tariffs don’t exist in a vacuum. Whether you’re importing produce, building materials, or holiday gifts, those added costs get passed down to businesses and, ultimately, to the Alaskan families already stretched thin by inflation.
The Modernization Program’s Goals
To be fair, the Don Young Port desperately needs modernization. The port is critical to Alaska’s supply chain, handling about 90% of the state’s goods. Upgrades are overdue, and failing to act could have severe consequences. The Assembly claims that this surcharge will help create a safer, more efficient port that can handle larger cargo volumes.
But here’s the rub: “Pay more to import more” doesn’t sound like a win for most Alaskans. The Assembly’s approach essentially says, We’ll fix the port, but you’re footing the bill. This isn’t exactly a people-first policy.
Tariffs Hit Hard in Alaska
Unlike the Lower 48, where products can move by road or rail, Alaska relies heavily on imports by sea and air. Every tariff, surcharge, or fee added to those shipments disproportionately impacts Alaskans. Groceries, fuel, construction materials—you name it, we already pay more for it. Increasing tariffs will only widen the gap between what Alaskans earn and what they need to spend to survive.
And let’s not forget: local businesses will feel the pinch, too. Higher import costs mean higher operating costs, which means higher prices for consumers. It’s a vicious cycle that makes living in Alaska even less affordable.
The Assembly’s Mixed Priorities
The irony of the Anchorage Assembly—Democrats who typically champion affordability and working families—voting for this surcharge shouldn’t be lost on anyone. When Republicans push policies that increase costs, it’s easy to cry foul. But when Democrats do it? Silence. This isn’t leadership; it’s hypocrisy.
There’s no doubt that modernizing the port is necessary. But did anyone stop to ask: Is this the best way to pay for it? Or better yet, Is this good for Alaskans?
What’s the Alternative?
If the Assembly truly wants to serve Alaskans, they need to think beyond tariffs and surcharges. How about lobbying for federal funding to cover more of the cost? After all, the Port of Alaska isn’t just Anchorage’s lifeline—it’s a strategic hub for the entire state. Federal dollars should play a bigger role in financing upgrades that benefit the nation as well as Alaskans.
Our Verdict: Bad for Alaska.
Get ready to pay more for rich people’s shit.