Key facts
- Peltola is campaigning on the slogan 'fish, family, freedom'.
- Peltola opposes Trump's tariff regime and his decision to attack Iran.
- Sullivan is emphasizing his advocacy for Alaska's military installations and oil developments.
- Sullivan has faced allegations of verbally and physically abusing his staff.
Democrat Mary Peltola is campaigning across Alaska, highlighting the impact of rising costs on residents in remote areas, where items like paper towels can cost $40 and oat milk $21. She attributes these price hikes, along with high energy bills, partly to tariffs and the conflict in the Middle East. Peltola is challenging incumbent Republican Senator Dan Sullivan in a state that has historically leaned Republican, aiming to become the first Democrat to win the seat in nearly two decades.
Sullivan, who has trailed in some polls, received a boost from President Donald Trump, who rallied voters in Wasilla. Trump criticized Peltola as a "radical left" candidate. Both candidates are vying to represent Alaska's interests in Washington, D.C., particularly concerning its fishing and oil and gas industries. Sullivan has accused Peltola of mistreating her staff, a claim her campaign disputes, citing personal grief during the period in question.
Alaska's unique political landscape, with a significant portion of the population identifying as independent, presents an opportunity for Democrats. Peltola, an Alaska native, centers her campaign on "fish, family, freedom" and opposes policies she believes harm the state's economy. Sullivan, meanwhile, emphasizes his support for Alaska's military installations and energy development, framing Democrats as hostile to the state's oil and gas sector.