Republican Senator Dan Sullivan faces a highly competitive re-election contest in Alaska, where the state’s unusual voting system could affect the outcome and potentially influence control of the US Senate. Alaska uses an open “top four” primary, followed by ranked-choice voting, which supporters say expands voter choice and encourages broader appeals but Republican critics argue weakens party control and creates opportunities for confusion.

Sullivan is running against former Democratic Representative Mary Peltola, while another Republican, Daniel J. Sullivan, remains on the ballot despite claims that his candidacy could confuse voters; courts overturned his disqualification. Republican strategist Mary Marslender says the system disadvantages the party, while supporters defend it as more independent and representative. Voters will also decide whether to retain or repeal the system, which has affected other statewide races through late withdrawals.