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Governor Mike Dunleavy Appoints Stephen J. Cox as Alaska's Next Attorney General

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Governor Mike Dunleavy has announced the appointment of Stephen J. Cox as the next Attorney General of Alaska, effective Friday, August 29, 2025. Cox, a seasoned legal, regulatory, and leadership professional, brings a wealth of experience to the Attorney General's office, having served in various federal roles, including as a senior U.S. Department of Justice official and United States Attorney. Cox's appointment is subject to confirmation by the Alaska Legislature during the 2026 session.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stephen J. Cox, 48, has been appointed as the next Attorney General of Alaska, effective August 29, 2025, pending confirmation by the Alaska Legislature.
  • Cox brings a broad range of experience, having served in various federal roles, including as a senior U.S. Department of Justice official, United States Attorney, and top lawyer in the private sector.
  • Cox has held senior positions in the U.S. Department of Justice, including Deputy Associate Attorney General and Chief of Staff, and has overseen various litigating divisions and directed the Department's civil and criminal enforcement efforts.
  • As a senior advisor to the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Cox worked on counterterrorism and intelligence operations in the wake of the 2009 Fort Hood attack.
  • Cox has also served as a senior associate attorney at a multinational law firm, focusing on investigations, corporate compliance, and regulatory matters.
  • Cox has a strong background in Alaska, having served as Senior Vice President, Chief Legal and Strategy Officer at Bristol Bay Industrial (BBI), and as a principal attorney for Apache Corporation's Alaska operations.
  • Cox has been deeply involved in the Anchorage community, serving as a parishioner at Holy Family Old Cathedral, a supporter of the Dominican friars of the Western Province, and a member of a new classical school in South Anchorage.
  • As Attorney General, Cox will oversee all district attorneys, act as general counsel to the Governor and executive branch, and represent the State in civil and criminal matters before federal and state courts.

Statistics:

  • Cox will assume the role of Attorney General on August 29, 2025, pending confirmation by the Alaska Legislature.
  • Cox has served in various senior positions in the U.S. Department of Justice, including Deputy Associate Attorney General and Chief of Staff.
  • During his tenure as U.S. Attorney, Cox led a staff of over 120 personnel and oversaw the prosecution of all federal crimes and civil cases in the Eastern District of Texas.
  • Cox has also held significant private sector roles, including Senior Associate Attorney at a multinational law firm.

Sources:

  • Office of the Governor of Alaska
  • Statement from Governor Mike Dunleavy

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