John Binkley
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John Binkley (born 1953 in Fairbanks, Alaska) is an Alaska politician and a former Republican candidate for the office of Alaska governor in the 2006 election.
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[edit] Biography
A graduate of Lathrop High School, Binkley attended Western Michigan University before returning to Bethel, Alaska to start a river freight business. In 1982, Binkley was elected to the Bethel City Council, where he served for four years. He sold the business and, in 1991, was named Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Riverboat Discovery, a successful tour company. From 1993, he additionally served as president of the El Dorado Gold Mine, a tourist attraction.
In 1985, Binkley was elected to district 25 of the Alaska Legislature, where he served on the finance and fisheries committees. In 1986, he was elected to the Alaska State Senate, district M, where he served until 1990. During that time, he was named to several committee posts, including the Senate Finance Committee (1986 – 1990); Conference Committee on Budget (1988 – 1990); Committee on Military & Veterans Affairs (1986 – 1990); Sub-Committee on Commerce (1986 – 1990); and the Special Senate Committee on High Seas Salmon Interception. In Alaska, legislators are considered part-time, and many do not typically cease outside employment.
In 2005, Binkley received an associate degree in airframe and powerplant maintenance technology from the University of Alaska Fairbanks
In 2005, Binkley left both his executive posts to prepare for a run for governor. He placed second, with 30% of the vote, behind Sarah Palin.
He is married to Judy Gray Binkley, and they have four children. Binkley is a licensed boat captain and pilot, and enjoys and coaches hockey.
[edit] Electoral history
- 2006 race for Governor (primary)
- Sarah Palin (R), 51%
- John Binkley (R), 30%
- Frank Murkowski (R) (incumbent), 19%[1]
