Trump Campaigns in Alaska to Support GOP Candidates

President Donald Trump visited Alaska on a Tuesday, participating in efforts to support Republican Senator Dan Sullivan in his reelection campaign. This trip marks an uncommon campaign event as Republicans aim to keep their congressional majority.

In Anchorage, Trump’s endorsement extended to Bernadette Wilson, a Republican candidate in the state’s crowded gubernatorial race. During a rally, Trump urged Republicans to rally behind Wilson, who he described as a “fantastic choice” for governor following Mike Dunleavy’s term-limited departure.

Wilson topped the Republican candidates in Alaska’s August primary, though she faces competition from fellow Republicans Treg Taylor and Dave Bronson, alongside Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins. Trump acknowledged the difficulty posed by the divided Republican field, emphasizing the challenge of three Republicans opposing one Democrat.

“It’s tough. Think of it: You have three Republicans against one Democrat. That’s crazy.”

Trump recommended the two other Republicans withdraw, given Wilson’s primary success. Wilson expressed gratitude on X, highlighting her honor in receiving Trump’s support and her eagerness to collaborate with his administration.

The president criticized Alaska’s ranked choice voting system, labeling it as a “phony rigged deal,” and offered encouragement to Wilson, acknowledging the challenges ahead.

“So, Bernadette, good luck. It ain’t gonna be easy, but I’m with you all the way.”

Alaska voters are set to decide this November on repealing the open primary and ranked choice general election system. A prior repeal effort narrowly failed in 2024.

Trump Supports Dan Sullivan

Trump’s visit aimed to reinforce Sullivan’s campaign for a third Senate term amidst tough competition from Democrat Mary Peltola. The upcoming election poses challenges for Republicans to maintain their Senate majority.

Historically, Alaska has favored Republicans in statewide elections, with Democrats last winning a Senate race in 2008 and the governor’s seat in 1998. Nonetheless, mounting gas prices and inflation provide Democrats potential advantage in the coming elections.

Peltola’s campaign underscores the cost of living issues, including notable gas prices during her statewide travels. Trump’s support emphasized Sullivan as the “real Dan Sullivan,” distinguishing him from another similarly named candidate, Dan J. Sullivan, a retired teacher in the Senate race.

Democrats allegedly promoted Dan J. Sullivan to confuse voters, according to Trump.

Prior to Trump’s appearance, Sullivan criticized Peltola’s energy policies, arguing that Democrats favor importing oil and gas over local drilling.

“Democrats like Mary Peltola would rather import oil and gas from Mexico than drill it in Alaska,” Sullivan posted on X. “What’re we gonna do? Keep the Senate and build the line.”

Newsweek reached out to Peltola’s campaign for comments, but there was no immediate response.

Trump’s Rally in Wasilla

Rally attendance in Wasilla featured projected crowds, with videos capturing large gatherings outside the venue. An estimated 10,000 were watching on a Jumbotron outside. Inside attendee numbers remain unclear.

Trump mentioned the significant effort involved in traveling to Alaska, stating that he would not cancel the visit. He described Alaska as a “special place,” highlighting his grandfather’s connection to the state.

“You think I’d ever cancel? I don’t cancel for Alaska.”

Governor Dunleavy endorsed Trump prior to his speech, praising him as “probably the best friend… ever in the history of the state.”

Trump Pardons Business Owners

During Trump’s nearly hour-and-a-half speech, unconditional pardons were granted to Zachary Czubak and Patrick Fleming, co-owners of Arm Rippin Toys, a vehicle repair shop in Anchorage. They were previously found guilty of Clean Air Act violations concerning tampering with diesel vehicle emission monitoring equipment.

Trump criticized the legal actions against them, stating, “They want to put them in jail for 10 years because they fixed an engine.”

Czubak thanked Trump for the pardon, while Fleming encouraged votes for reelection efforts of Sullivan and Representative Nick Begich.

The president endorsed the Alaska LNG project, proposing an approximately 800-mile pipeline transporting natural gas from Alaska’s North Slope. The project received federal permits in December 2025, although construction has yet to begin.

Trump revealed Taiwan’s agreement to purchase 30 percent of the project’s gas output over two decades, promising over $4 billion investment, though Taiwanese officials hadn’t confirmed these statements.

He also elaborated on a proposed high-speed internet project for Alaska, involving a $162 million investment. This proposal is aligned with Federal Communications Commission plans. FCC Chair Brendan Carr emphasized intentions to link all Alaskans with high-speed internet.

Interrupted Rally

A protester interrupted Trump’s speech, prompting boos and escort from the venue. Trump commented on the protester’s departure.

“Now he has the displeasure of going home to his mother and father, who both voted for me, by the way.”

Alaska’s general election is scheduled for November 3, with early voting beginning October 19. The elections encompass gubernatorial and congressional races, with the GOP striving for congressional control.