Democratic strategist Adrienne Elrod recently commented on reports of a Democratic scheme aimed at influencing Alaska’s Senate race. She described these tactics as common in political campaigns, likening them to Republican support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s presidential bid against Joe Biden in the 2024 election.
The New York Times revealed that Democratic operatives allegedly recruited Dan Sullivan as a spoiler candidate to challenge incumbent Republican Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska. This move might have been intended to benefit Democratic opponent, former Rep. Mary Peltola.
During a discussion on an MS NOW panel, Elrod dismissed the controversy. She noted similarities with Republican strategies in previous campaigns, particularly the support for Kennedy Jr. by Trump donors who hoped to divert Biden’s supporters. Instead, this tactic inadvertently strengthened Biden’s position.
“Some of this stuff happens all the time,” Elrod commented. “There are tactics that both campaigns can use.”
MS NOW anchor Peter Alexander highlighted that these actions are not illegal and pointed out Sen. Dan Sullivan’s clear identification as the incumbent on the ballot, which reduces potential voter confusion despite concerns from the Trump administration.
The Mary Peltola campaign has denied any knowledge of the controversy involving Daniel J. Sullivan Jr.’s candidacy. However, Republicans remain skeptical about his involvement, as he is one of four Senate candidates listed on Alaska’s rank-choice ballot. The Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Alaska to prevent the certification of election results if Sullivan’s presence impacts the outcome.
The New York Times detailed how Peltola’s staff searched for individuals named Dan Sullivan in Alaska, aiming to recruit a spoiler candidate. Despite claims of Peltola’s detachment, campaign manager Elisa Rios acknowledged Peltola’s awareness of the situation.
The Times’ investigation, supported by interviews, text messages, and potential lawsuit documents, indicates that Peltola’s team collaborated with individuals to encourage Mr. Sullivan’s candidacy and others as potential spoilers. Their goal was to erode the incumbent’s support, potentially facilitating a Democratic victory.
Joseph A. Wulfsohn, a media reporter for Fox News Digital, provided this story. Tips can be sent to [email protected] or on Twitter: @JosephWulfsohn.
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