Alaska Senate Race Heats Up: Vance Endorses Sullivan Against Peltola
In a pivotal moment for the upcoming elections, Vice President JD Vance urged Alaskans to support U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, emphasizing that this closely contested race could influence control of the Senate. Sullivan is facing Democrat Mary Peltola and two other candidates, Dan J. Sullivan and Gerald Hiekes, amid Alaska’s unique four-candidate election format.
Vance praised Sullivan’s dedication, stating, “He’s delivered for every Alaskan who wants the freedom to build a good life right here in the place that you call home.” The vice president criticized Peltola, highlighting her poor attendance record, with 235 missed votes from 2022 to 2024, and questioned her commitment to supporting Alaskans.
“Her sole job was to support Alaskans in the House of Representatives,” Vance remarked, pointing out the significance of her absences. Vance also attacked Peltola’s voting stance on the Alaska Right to Produce Act, which aimed to reverse Biden administration restrictions on oil and gas leases. Although Peltola co-sponsored the bill, she expressed concerns over its impact on Alaska’s fishing communities, choosing to vote “present” rather than in favor.
Vance and Sullivan framed Peltola’s decision as detrimental to Alaska’s energy interests, highlighting the need for infrastructure like the liquefied natural gas pipeline, which the Trump administration previously coordinated with South Korea.
Amidst their criticisms, Sullivan emphasized the urgency of these energy projects to lower gas prices and contrast them with the Biden administration’s policies. He stated, “The true forever war is the national Democrats’ war against Alaska energy and Alaska jobs.”
Vance also scrutinized Peltola’s campaign finances, alleging misuse of funds for personal expenses, including a substantial amount on food delivery services. In response, a spokesperson for Peltola’s campaign asserted that she remains focused on addressing rising costs and improving conditions for Alaskans.
As the election approaches, the contrasting narratives of Sullivan’s commitment to Alaskan energy vs. Peltola’s promises to advocate for her constituents will play a crucial role in shaping voter sentiment.
