Independent Senate Challenger Exits Petersburg Days Before Vote

Daniel J. Sullivan, the independent candidate running against incumbent Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan in Alaska, departed his hometown of Petersburg earlier this week. Multiple sources confirmed the move to CBS News, noting the challenger left two days after The New York Times reported that operatives linked to Democrat Mary Peltola’s campaign had recruited him. The departure occurred just 48 hours before the midterm election.

Local residents reported seeing no physical evidence of a ground game during the campaign period. A former student and resident stated she observed Sullivan boarding a flight to Anchorage on Monday. Other friends described the candidate and his wife as frequent travelers, though specific destinations remained unclear to those close to him. The town of Petersburg, accessible only by air or sea, has a population of approximately 3,000.

Dozens of residents told CBS News they received no mailers, flyers, brochures, or signs after Sullivan announced his candidacy last spring. Andrew Worhatch, a local fisherman, noted the absence of a defined platform. “I don't think it's a serious candidacy,” Worhatch said. “I haven't seen a platform.” A CBS News crew found no active campaigning outside Sullivan’s home, which is located next to the main coastal highway.

Supporters argue the name similarity is manageable for informed voters. Keely Hankins, a resident who has known the candidate for years, said she believes “Petersburg Dan” is the best choice for Southeast Alaska. She explained that voters who intend to cast a deliberate vote can distinguish between “Daniel J. Sullivan, Jr.” and “Dan Sullivan, incumbent.” Hankins cited Sullivan’s family values and history as a role model for students as key factors in her support.

The situation has drawn criticism from other locals who view the candidacy as a distraction. Darla Kowalski called the situation embarrassing for the small fishing community. “It's just embarrassing to think that we, a small fishing village, have such a hoaxer,” she said. The local school district confirmed Sullivan taught music and fourth and fifth grade for nearly 20 years before retiring in 2021.

Political leaders on both sides have weighed in on the dispute. Sen. Dan Sullivan has labeled the challenger a “sham candidate” designed to confuse voters in a close race. State election officials initially ruled Daniel J. Sullivan ineligible for the ballot, but a state court reversed that decision. The Peltola campaign and national Democrats have denied any connection, with Peltola stating she “knew nothing about” the second Sullivan.

Following the New York Times report, Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy and the Justice Department became involved in the matter. No criminal charges have been filed. The Justice Department has filed a civil suit to prevent the election from being certified if Sen. Dan Sullivan loses due to voter confusion.