Representative Nellie Jimmie

Nellie Jimmie is a Democrat serving in the Alaska House of Representatives, representing District 38. She assumed office on January 21, 2025, and her current term is scheduled to end on January 19, 2027. Jimmie won election in November 2024, succeeding Conrad McCormick, and now represents a district that includes communities across Western Alaska, such as Bethel and Toksook Bay.

Nellie Darlene Jimmie, also known by her Yup’ik name Unangik, was born in Bethel, Alaska, in 1979. She is of Yup’ik, Ojibwa, and Lakota descent, and her upbringing was deeply rooted in the subsistence lifestyle of her community. Growing up, she participated in traditional activities such as fishing, hunting, and gathering, which gave her a strong appreciation for Alaska’s land, culture, and traditions. She graduated from Nelson Island High School, and her early life experiences shaped her values of resilience, community service, and cultural preservation.

Before entering state politics, Jimmie was actively involved in local business and community leadership. She operated a small business in her community and served as a representative on the Alaska Village Electric Cooperative board for Toksook Bay. These roles gave her practical experience in economic development, energy management, and community advocacy. Her leadership in these areas reflected her commitment to improving the lives of rural Alaskans and ensuring that essential services were accessible to all.

Jimmie’s decision to run for the Alaska House of Representatives was driven by her desire to represent the voices of rural and Indigenous communities in Western Alaska. In the 2024 election, she campaigned on issues such as education, healthcare access, energy reliability, and the preservation of Alaska Native traditions. Her victory marked the beginning of her first term in the legislature, where she has continued to advocate for policies that strengthen families and communities across her district.

Since taking office, Jimmie has served on several committees, including House Finance and its subcommittees on Fish & Game, Public Safety, Judiciary, and the University of Alaska. She has also chaired key subcommittees, reflecting her growing influence in the legislature. Her legislative priorities include supporting rural education, improving healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring that Alaska’s natural resources are managed responsibly. She has emphasized the importance of balancing economic development with cultural preservation, drawing on her own heritage and experiences to guide her policymaking.

Jimmie’s political philosophy is rooted in Democratic values, with a focus on equity, opportunity, and community empowerment. She believes that government should serve the people by listening to their concerns and providing practical solutions. Her approach to leadership is collaborative, seeking to build consensus while staying true to her principles. She has spoken about the importance of representing the diverse voices of District 38, which includes many Alaska Native communities, and ensuring that their needs are addressed in state policy.

Outside of politics, Nellie Jimmie remains closely connected to her community and family. She is the mother of two children, and her life reflects a balance between public service, professional commitments, and cultural traditions. Her journey from subsistence living in Bethel to serving in the Alaska House of Representatives highlights her dedication to Alaska’s people and her determination to make a difference in their lives.

Nellie Jimmie’s story is one of resilience, cultural pride, and service. Her election to the Alaska House of Representatives demonstrates the trust her constituents have placed in her to advocate for their interests. As she continues her work in the legislature, Jimmie remains focused on strengthening rural communities, supporting Alaska’s economy, and ensuring that the state remains a place where families and traditions can thrive.