Federal prosecutors launch dual probes into Alaska Senate race

U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman confirmed Friday that federal prosecutors have opened both civil and criminal investigations into the Alaska U.S. Senate race. The legal action responds to allegations that Democratic campaign staff recruited a retired teacher named Dan J. Sullivan to run against incumbent Republican Senator Daniel S. Sullivan. Heyman stated the two tracks are proceeding simultaneously within their separate jurisdictions.

On the civil side, prosecutors plan to file a preliminary injunction by Monday. This motion seeks expedited discovery to freeze ballots and evaluate potential voter deception under the National Voter Registration Act. Heyman described the civil suit as publicly focused on preserving ballot integrity. He noted that The New York Times published new details earlier in the week that prompted the review. The criminal investigation will examine the conduct of individuals involved in the recruitment process.

The ballot for the seat lists four candidates. Senator Daniel S. Sullivan, the incumbent, is the first. Former Representative Mary Peltola is the primary Democratic challenger. A retired teacher, Daniel J. Sullivan, appears as the third candidate without a party designation. A fourth long-shot candidate completes the list. The race is critical for the Republican effort to maintain control of the Senate. Republicans argue the retired teacher was placed on the ballot to split the vote against the incumbent. Alaska uses a ranked-choice voting system that allows voters to select multiple candidates if they are confused by the similar names.

Peltola denied her campaign sought to recruit the retired teacher. Speaking at a rally in Juneau, she stated, "I just want to clear the air." She added, "I knew nothing about any other candidate on the ballot except for me and the incumbent. That is all I have ever known about. I am not interested in tricking voters." The retired teacher also denied contact with Peltola's team. He told reporters he has had "zero, none, zilch" communication with the campaign.

Legal experts have questioned the strength of the federal government's position. Joshua Douglas, a law professor at the University of Kentucky, told Reuters that the Constitution delegates election administration to state governments. He argued that if Daniel J. Sullivan validly qualified under state law, the federal case may be weak. Peltola's attorneys have asked U.S. District Judge Sharon Gleason to dismiss the Justice Department's lawsuit. They argue the federal government lacks the specific legal authority to bring the case. The Trump administration filed its original request to block certification on October 22, claiming federal law requires states to safeguard federal election integrity.

Heyman told reporters that Alaskan voters should cast their ballots for the candidate they intend to support. He said officials are working to ensure the count reflects that intention. He noted that the team has received new information in recent hours and will act on credible leads. "We will not let anyone or any group undermine this election," he said.

Early voting continues through Monday in most districts. Some areas allow voting on Saturday and Sunday. Election Day is Tuesday. Judge Gleason could rule on the dismissal request as early as Saturday. The outcome of that decision will determine whether the federal intervention continues before the votes are counted.