Independent Alaska Senate Candidate Daniel J. Sullivan Leaves Hometown Amid Campaign Questions

Independent candidate Daniel J. Sullivan, whose name closely resembles that of the Republican incumbent, left his hometown of Petersburg, Alaska, earlier this week, multiple sources confirmed to CBS News. A resident who had previously been his student said she saw him on a flight to Anchorage on Monday, two days after a report that he had been recruited by operatives linked to Democrat Mary Peltola's campaign. The source said she did not know his destination, while another friend described the couple as "world travelers."

Sullivan's whereabouts after leaving Petersburg remain unclear, and dozens of residents said they have not seen any campaign materials such as mailers, flyers, brochures or signs since he announced his candidacy last spring. "I don't think it's a serious candidacy," said fisherman Andrew Worhatch, adding that he has not seen a platform.

A CBS News crew on the ground in Petersburg also reported no signs of active campaigning, aside from Sullivan's home adjacent to the main coastal highway. Nonetheless, some locals expressed support. Keely Hankins said she believes "Petersburg Dan" is the only candidate capable of representing Southeast Alaska, noting his long-standing reputation as a teacher and community role model.

Other residents voiced criticism, with Darla Kowalski calling the situation "embarrassing" for the small fishing village. The local school district confirmed that Sullivan taught music and fourth- and fifth-grade classes for nearly two decades before retiring in 2021.

Republicans have argued that Sullivan's candidacy is intended to confuse voters in a closely contested midterm Senate race, with the incumbent Senator Dan Sullivan labeling him a "sham candidate." State election officials initially ruled him ineligible, but a state court later reversed that decision. The Peltola campaign and national Democrats denied any involvement, with Peltola stating she is "not interested in tricking voters" and knew nothing about the second Sullivan. In interviews over the summer, the Petersburg native asserted his genuine interest in serving as senator.