Peltola rejects ballot-stacking claims at Juneau rally

U.S. Senate candidate Mary Peltola denied involvement in a scheme to recruit a second Dan Sullivan on Thursday night. She spoke to a packed room at the Crystal Saloon in Juneau. Her goal was to clear the air regarding recent media reports.

The rally took place one day after The New York Times published an investigation. That story examined Democratic efforts to stack Alaska’s ballot. The piece followed other Times reporting this fall that looked into Peltola’s campaign and her treatment of staffers.

“I just want to clear the air. I knew nothing about any other candidates on the ballot except for me and the incumbent. That is all I have ever known about. I am not interested in tricking voters. I know I can beat Dan Sullivan,” Peltola said. She added that she felt like she was dodging bullets due to the recent coverage.

Political leaders in Washington and Juneau reacted quickly to the findings. President Donald Trump called for Peltola to be criminally charged on Wednesday. He had previously directed the Justice Department to sue if Peltola narrowly wins and the state certifies the results. Gov. Mike Dunleavy also ordered an investigation on Wednesday. He wants to determine if the alleged scheme violates state law.

Supporters outside the venue expressed confidence in Peltola’s explanation. Juneau resident Sharon Love said she was happy with the candidate’s answer. Love admitted she only skimmed the Times article. “I was ready to unsubscribe,” Love said, chuckling. “But I came to hear what she had to say, and so I was happy with her answer, and I believe her that she wasn’t involved.”

Cindy Spanyers, another Juneau resident, viewed the controversy as a distraction. She said the Times story does not address critical issues like affordability or Russian involvement with LNG. Spanyers believes voters care more about the cost of living and Alaska’s energy future. Those issues are competing for attention as Election Day approaches on Tuesday.