Alaska elections office removes duplicate‑named Dan Sullivan from Senate primary ballot

An individual named Dan J. Sullivan, who shares the same name and party affiliation as incumbent Republican U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, filed a court challenge after Alaska Division of Elections Director Carol Beecher disqualified him from the August primary ballot. Beecher said the filing was intended to confuse voters and compromise ballot fairness. The challenger argues the disqualification violates state and federal law and seeks reinstatement. Sen. Dan Sullivan and the National Republican Senatorial Committee condemned the challenger as a sham candidate, alleging he was working with Democrats to aid former Rep. Mary Peltola, a claim denied by both the challenger and Peltola’s campaign. Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom announced an investigation based on “credible allegations” of coordination. Beecher also cited the challenger’s registration as Daniel J. Sullivan Jr., his party‑affiliation change, and similarities between his campaign website and the incumbent’s. Legislative attorney Andrew Dunmire said the regulation does not forbid listing both names on the ballot and suggested design adjustments to distinguish them. Alaska’s open primary advances the top four vote‑getters, regardless of party.