Peltola controversy puts Alaska and the wider Senate battle in focus

Alaska’s closely watched Senate race has been overshadowed by allegations that people linked to Democrat Mary Peltola’s campaign helped recruit a candidate who shares the name of her Republican opponent, incumbent senator Dan Sullivan. The other candidate, retired teacher Daniel J. Sullivan Jr., appears on the ballot in Alaska’s ranked-choice election. Peltola says she knew nothing about the effort, her campaign denies involvement, and Daniel J. Sullivan Jr. has denied running at Democrats’ behest. Donald Trump has called for Peltola’s prosecution, while state and federal authorities have opened investigations. No finding of wrongdoing has been established against her.

The dispute has raised questions about voter confusion and the handling of the result in a race that could help decide control of the US Senate. A federal judge dismissed a Justice Department lawsuit seeking to delay certification if Peltola wins, but the criminal investigation remains open. Alaska’s ballot identifies the incumbent Sullivan, and ranked-choice counting may mean the winner is not known immediately. Beyond the controversy, the candidates are contesting issues including living costs, energy development and their ability to represent Alaska’s interests in Washington.