In the remote reaches of western Alaska lies Adak Island, where a unique tradition has taken root. Adak's residents have the distinction of being the last Americans to cast an in-person ballot for president, a tradition that began in 2012 when the island introduced in-person voting.
Located in the Aleutian Island chain, Adak Island is closer to Russia than mainland Alaska and further west than Hawaii. When polls close in Adak, it's 1 a.m. on the East Coast, marking the end of the voting process for the nation.
Adak Island holds historical significance as a former World War II military base and naval station. It served as a strategic location during the war, hosting troops and notable figures such as writers Dashiell Hammett and Gore Vidal, President Franklin Roosevelt, and boxing champion Joe Lewis.
Today, Adak faces challenges with a dwindling population and economic struggles. The town's fish processing plant has faced closures, contributing to a decline in residents from about 6,000 during the base's active years to just 171 in the 2020 Census.
The island's school closed in 2023 due to a lack of students, highlighting the ongoing population decline. Adak's city manager expressed hope for a revival, emphasizing the community's desire to attract military presence as a potential economic driver.
As Adak prepares for the upcoming presidential election, the city's unique position as the last to vote in the nation adds a touch of excitement. City officials anticipate the identity of this year's final voter, sparking a bit of friendly competition among residents.
Despite its challenges, Adak Island continues to hold a special place in American electoral history, embodying a sense of community spirit and resilience in the face of change.
