The Alaska Division of Elections has preliminarily determined that Dan J. Sullivan from Petersburg is not eligible to run for the U.S. Senate in 2026. This decision follows allegations from the Alaska Republican Party that he is attempting to confuse voters by running with the same name as the incumbent senator, Dan Sullivan. Carol Beecher, director of the Division of Elections, stated in a letter that the evidence does not support Dan J. Sullivan's eligibility for the office.
Dan J. Sullivan, 69, a retired teacher, entered the race to challenge Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan late last month. He asserts that he is running as a legitimate GOP candidate and is not collaborating with Democratic operatives. The state’s decision is not final; he has until 5 p.m. Thursday to respond.
The Division of Elections did not specify the evidence leading to this decision but referenced two complaints from the Alaska Republican Party. One complaint claims that Dan J. Sullivan misrepresented his party affiliation, stating he was affiliated with the Republican Party despite being listed as “undeclared” at the time of his candidacy declaration.
National Republican groups have labeled him a sham candidate, alleging that he may have collaborated with Democrats to aid Mary Peltola, a Democratic challenger. The National Republican Senatorial Committee has requested that state officials prevent his name from appearing on the ballot, citing concerns that his candidacy could mislead voters.
Republican Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom announced the investigation into Dan J. Sullivan's candidacy, suggesting potential perjury. Dan J. Sullivan has maintained that he meets the legal requirements to run and has refused to provide a sworn affidavit requested by the state. He received notice of his preliminary ineligibility on Wednesday and stated he would comment later as he considers his next steps.