A political conflict in Alaska is heating up over an unusual issue that could impact Congressional control: the presence of two candidates with the same name on the November Senate ballot.
Dan J. Sullivan, a former teacher, is fighting to keep his spot on the ballot against Senator Dan S. Sullivan of Alaska, a Republican. An elections official has moved to disqualify him, raising concerns about the race potentially influencing Senate control.
Both Democrats and Republicans are taking Dan J. Sullivan’s candidacy seriously. Although not expected to run a competitive race, Republicans worry voters may mistakenly choose him instead of Senator Sullivan. This confusion could benefit Mary Peltola, a former Representative and Democratic candidate, in a crucial Senate race.
On Monday, Alaska’s Republican Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom announced an investigation into Dan J. Sullivan’s campaign. She cited allegations of coordination with Ms. Peltola aimed at voter confusion.
Alaska’s top elections official, Carol Beecher, also a Republican, wrote to Dan J. Sullivan suggesting his ineligibility to run. She gave him a deadline to submit documents proving his eligibility.
Both Dan J. Sullivan and Ms. Peltola deny any campaign coordination. Mr. Sullivan claims Ms. Dahlstrom’s actions appear to shield the incumbent senator from electoral competition.
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