By Salma El-Sakka
The U.S. Justice Department issued subpoenas Thursday as part of a federal investigation into allegations that Democrat Mary Peltola’s campaign collaborated with party operatives to place a second candidate named Dan Sullivan on the Alaska Senate ballot, a move reportedly intended to confuse voters ahead of Tuesday’s midterm election.
Subpoenas Follow Media Reports
ABC News reported the subpoenas, citing sources familiar with the matter. The investigation follows a New York Times report published Wednesday that found the effort to recruit a second Dan Sullivan was led by Peltola’s campaign, which had denied involvement for months.
Republican Incumbent Targeted
The Republican incumbent, Senator Dan Sullivan, is seeking re-election. The Times reported the scheme aimed to mislead Alaskans who wanted to support Sullivan by presenting a same-named challenger.
State and Federal Responses
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy announced a separate criminal inquiry into the matter on Thursday. Former President Donald Trump said last week he had ordered the Justice Department to file a lawsuit to block certification of the Senate election if Sullivan does not win; that suit remains pending.
