In a surprise admission, Republican Senate candidate Dan J. Sullivan, a retired teacher, told the New York Times that he cast ballots for former Representative Mary Peltola (D-Alaska) in the 2022 and 2024 House elections. Sullivan now faces Peltola, incumbent Senator Dan S. Sullivan (R-Alaska), and others in Tuesday's open primary.
Dan J. Sullivan, who shares a nearly identical name with the incumbent, also stated he has voted for Democratic presidential nominees in the last three election cycles and participated in anti-Trump protests, including the "No Kings" demonstrations. He added that if forced to choose between the senator and Peltola, he would back the former congresswoman.
These revelations come amid accusations from Republicans that Dan J. Sullivan is a Democratic plant intended to siphon votes from the incumbent by confusing voters. Senator Sullivan, a Marine Corps veteran serving his second term, told reporters in June that his namesake was "purposely trying to trick my constituents to rig the election for Peltola."
Dan J. Sullivan denied any deceptive intent. "My intention is not to trick people. I would hope people are informed enough to know the difference between an incumbent senator and a teacher," he said. A spokesperson for Peltola's campaign said there is no affiliation with Dan J. Sullivan's campaign.
Alaska's open primary sends the top four vote-getters, regardless of party, to the November general election. Peltola, who made history as the first Alaska Native member of Congress, is challenging Senator Sullivan, who has received President Trump's endorsement. Local observers believe she has a credible shot at unseating him.
Recent polling shows a tight race. A survey by Alaska Survey Research, conducted in early August, put Peltola 2 points ahead of Sullivan. Other polls, including one from the New York Times/Siena College in June, showed Sullivan up by 2 points. "I don't think there's anyone else in the state who could give Dan [S.] Sullivan as tough of a race as Peltola can," said James Brooks, a longtime Alaska political reporter.
The race is part of a broader tightening contest that Democrats see as a potential flip opportunity. Sullivan's endorsement from Trump could be a double-edged sword in a state that has favored him in the past, but where Peltola's cross-party appeal has proven strong.
Dan J. Sullivan's voting record and protest participation may further complicate the dynamics, potentially drawing some independent voters while reinforcing Republican suspicions. His presence on the ballot could split the conservative vote, benefiting Peltola in the primary and possibly the general election.
The Alaska primary is one of several key races this week, with outcomes that could shape the Senate balance. As the state's unique top-four system unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Dan J. Sullivan's candidacy alters the expected trajectory of the race.
