Alaska Candidate Challenges Disqualification from Senate Race

In Juneau, Alaska, a retired teacher named Dan Sullivan, sharing the same name and party as Republican U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, is disputing a recent decision by a state official to remove his name from the upcoming primary ballot. The candidate, represented by his attorneys, argues that the action violates state and federal laws and seeks reinstatement on the ballot.

The argument centers on the U.S. Constitution’s criteria for Senate candidates, which includes age, citizenship, and residency. Sullivan’s attorneys emphasize that Alaska law does not regulate personal motives for entering the political race. The legal team, composed of Jeffrey Robinson, Bryn Pallesen, and Zoe Eisberg, asserts that Sullivan fulfills these qualifications.

Senator Dan Sullivan, who attended a Capitol meeting on June 2, along with the National Republican Senatorial Committee, criticized the newcomer. They accused the candidate of deceit and suggested he is collaborating with Democrats to support Mary Peltola, a former U.S. Representative. Both Peltola’s campaign and Democratic leaders, along with the challenger, deny these accusations.

This U.S. Senate race is significant and involves numerous contenders, with both main parties viewing it as crucial for congressional control. Steve Kirch, a spokesperson for the elections division, declined to comment on the ongoing case. Carol Beecher, of the elections division, aims to have the ballots printed soon.

Sullivan’s disqualification followed an investigation prompted by Republican Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom after allegations arose suggesting coordinated candidacy efforts. Beecher concluded Sullivan’s candidacy lacked genuineness and aimed to mislead voters; however, she found no solid evidence of him conspiring with Democratic figures.

When questioned, Sullivan stated he had no connections with Peltola’s campaign. Beecher’s decision was influenced by the candidate’s voter registration changes and campaign similarities with Senator Sullivan, and his consultant’s past Democratic associations.

The Alaska elections division’s regulations prohibit misleading ballot names. A legislative attorney, Andrew Dunmire, argued that Beecher’s regulation does not necessitate removing Sullivan from the ballot, advocating for design adjustments to distinguish candidates. The challenger, originally certified as Dan J. Sullivan, competes against incumbent Dan S. Sullivan.

Alaska operates open primaries advancing the top four candidates to a ranked-choice general election, irrespective of party affiliation.