Former State Rep. Ralph Samuels announced that he will be a candidate for governor, challenging incumbent Gov. Sean Parnell in the Republican primary, set for Aug. 24, 2010. Samuels made his announcement Dec. 8 at at the Dena'ina Convention Center in Anchorage. Samuels cited the need for proactive leadership to preserve and secure Alaska's future.

"We must take the opportunity to look forward not just one year or even five years, but 10 and 20 years ahead to ensure we are making the right choices for Alaska's future," Samuels said. "I believe we need leadership now in order to ensure a strong future."

Samuels, 48, put the state's economy as among his top priorities, including the continuing decline in oil exploration in Alaska and the uncertain future of an Alaska natural gas pipeline project. He also pledged to work as governor on pressing education issues, public safety and the state's infrastructure needs.

In his announcement, Samuels cited his roots in rural Alaska, including his childhood spent in Nome, Fairbanks, King Salmon and Metlakatla, where he graduated from high school. He attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Samuels spent most of his professional career as an executive with PenAir and, more recently, has been vice president for community and government affairs for Holland America, based in Anchorage. Samuels served in the state House from 2002 to 2008 representing District 29 in South Anchorage and, in his final term, served as House Majority Leader. He was also co-chair of the House Resources Committee.