Decoy Candidate Raises Concerns in Alaska Senate Race

A Democratic strategist has introduced a candidate look-alike, causing concern among Republicans who fear it could confuse voters in the upcoming Alaska Senate race. Campaign information shows that Amber Lee, a progressive consultant, issued a press release for the candidacy of a second “Dan Sullivan.” Republican strategists claim this candidate is unrelated to incumbent Senator Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska.

Nick Puglia, spokesperson for the National Republican Senate Committee, stated, “Mary Peltola and Chuck Schumer know they can’t beat Senator Sullivan on his record, so they’re resorting to deceitful political maneuvers that attempt to trick Alaskans and buy a seat.” Despite having months to clarify this to voters before the state’s primary in August, the filing highlights efforts to sway a critical Senate race.

The campaign website plays on the name similarity, leading with “Dan Sullivan challenges Dan Sullivan for U.S. Senate Seat, urges Alaskans to defeat incumbent, elect a Sullivan who stands up for Alaska.” The new candidate’s biography details his history of working blue-collar jobs such as logging and construction before his Senate bid due to governmental frustrations.

The campaign’s Instagram page lacks activity, with no posts and just two followers. There was no response to inquiries about the candidate’s intentions, FEC filings, or whether he aims to run as an independent. Both Sullivans will partake in Alaska’s open primary system, where the top four candidates will advance to the general election. If among them, the second Sullivan could appear on the November ballot, confusing many rural voters.

In Alaska, ranked-choice voting means voters select multiple candidates by preference. This system allows votes to still count toward a second or third option if their top choice is eliminated. Although Amber Lee did not comment on these developments, her political stance likely rules out a genuine campaign for another Dan Sullivan. Her consulting firm, Amber Strategies, supports progressive clients like Alaska Women Ascent, promoting pro-choice and pro-LGBTQ rights candidates.

Despite Alaska’s Republican history, Peltola was elected to its at-large district in 2022. In a past election, Sen. Dan Sullivan, after serving as Alaska’s attorney general, won reelection in 2015, with a 53.9% to 41.2% victory over Al Gross. The Alaska primary is scheduled for August 18.