The ACLU of Alaska is representing Austin Ahmasuk who wrote a letter-to-the-editor in the Nome Nugget in early February expressing his concerns about the use of discretionary proxies in elections for the Sitnasuak Native Corporation.
After receiving a complaint, the State of Alaska determined that Mr. Ahmasuk’s letter was a “proxy solicitation,” and the Alaska Division of Banking and Securities proposed to fine him 1500 dollars for violating regulations governing proxy solicitations. Mr. Ahmasuk is challenging that decision on the grounds that the fines and regulations violate his rights to due process and freedom of speech.