More than 10,600 people headed to schools and community centers around the state Saturday morning to cast votes in the caucuses, which were organized by the Alaska Democratic Party. Unexpectedly high turnout at some locations overwhelmed volunteers and led to long lines, delays and, at least in Anchorage, warnings from fire marshals.

Sanders won all 40 districts in the state by double-digit margins, according to a vote breakdown released late Saturday by the party. The strong showing for Sanders came on the heels of a visit by his wife, Jane O’Meara Sanders, and a Friday statement declaring his campaign’s opposition to the proposed Pebble mine.

Supporters said a combination of grass-roots organizing and outreach to rural communities helped bolster his bid.

“I think (Sanders’) message appealed to the independent spirit of Alaskans,” said David Karabelnikoff, 34, an Alaska Native from Anchorage and a Sanders campaign organizer.

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