Democratic strategist Adrienne Elrod addressed the revelations about a Democratic plan to influence Alaska’s Senate race. She compared this strategy to Republican support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s 2024 presidential bid against Joe Biden. The New York Times reported that Democratic operatives allegedly recruited a man named Dan Sullivan as a spoiler candidate against Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan, potentially aiding his Democratic opponent, Mary Peltola.
Reactions to the Allegations
Elrod, appearing on an MS NOW panel, downplayed the controversy. She stated, “Some of this stuff happens all the time.” She pointed out similar tactics used in Kennedy’s run against Biden when Republicans supported his campaign.
MS NOW anchor Peter Alexander highlighted that the actions in Alaska were “not illegal” and noted that the Republican senator appeared as “incumbent” on the ballot, which counters arguments about potential voter confusion.
Peltola Campaign’s Denial
Mary Peltola’s campaign denied involvement in the controversy surrounding fellow candidate Daniel J. Sullivan Jr. Republicans have questioned Sullivan Jr.’s candidacy, suspecting attempts to confuse voters. The Department of Justice filed a lawsuit to block certification of election results if incumbent Sen. Sullivan loses and votes cast for Sullivan Jr. alter the outcome.
The Times reported that in the summer of 2025, a staffer for Peltola was told by top campaign aides to find people named Dan Sullivan in Alaska. They aimed to exploit the state’s rank-choice ballot format. According to Elisa Rios, Peltola’s former campaign manager, Peltola was “definitely aware” of these tactics, although she wasn’t directly involved.
Investigation Findings
The Times found evidence, including interviews and text messages, that indicated Peltola’s team worked with people recruiting Sullivan Jr. It revealed broader efforts to introduce other potential spoilers to dilute the incumbent’s support.