Alaska Senate Race Tightens Amid Vote Count

Former U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola and two-term Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan both told their respective crowds on Tuesday night that patience was required before the outcome of the Alaska U.S. Senate race could be determined. The two candidates delivered speeches emphasizing confidence in their chances while acknowledging the complexity of the state's voting process.

The contest had long been viewed as a pivotal factor in determining which party would control the U.S. Senate. Democrats held the majority before polls closed in Alaska on Tuesday. Sullivan addressed the early returns by noting the national trend while distinguishing his race. He told his supporters, “Lower 48 blue wave. But we're different.” Peltola offered a different perspective during her event, declaring to the room, “We are getting our government back.”

The campaign trail was marked by controversy involving a third candidate, retired teacher Dan J. Sullivan. President Donald Trump focused on this candidate, whom he labeled “fake,” and directed the Justice Department to sue to block certification if the incumbent lost. This legal action was filed less than two weeks before the election. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit, leading to an appeal by the Justice Department.

Tensions rose after reports indicated that Peltola’s campaign may have been involved in recruiting Dan J. Sullivan. The New York Times reported on these efforts, which reignited suspicions that the third candidate was a strategic move to confuse voters. Peltola denied any involvement, and Dan J. Sullivan, who resides in Petersburg, stated he had no contact with her team. The ballot listed the incumbent as Dan S. Sullivan and the third candidate as Daniel J. Sullivan Jr.

Sullivan characterized the dispute as the most substantial election cheating scandal in Alaska’s history. He questioned Peltola’s denials during a press conference in Anchorage after casting his ballot. He stated, “The whole scheme treats all of us Alaskans with disrespect.” Meanwhile, the Justice Department confirmed a criminal investigation was underway, though Alaska U.S. Attorney Michael Heyman did not specify the crimes or targets involved.

Alaska’s ranked choice voting system complicates the final tally. Ballots from overseas voters postmarked by Election Day have until November 18 to be received. If no candidate secures more than 50% of first-choice votes, the rankings will determine the winner. Early counts showed Peltola leading, but the gap narrowed as Sullivan reclaimed the lead. Neither candidate has yet crossed the 50% threshold required for an outright victory.

Peltola appeared energized during her speech, taking photos with attendees. She cautioned that the final count would be slow due to the need to process votes from remote communities and service members overseas. Sullivan agreed that time was needed but expressed confidence that he would win reelection once all ballots were counted. The race remains undecided pending further returns.