Federal judge blocks Trump administration's effort to protect Alaska Senate ballots from fraud
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A federal judge in Alaska dismissed a Trump administration lawsuit over ballot handling in the upcoming Senate race, where Republican Senator Dan Sullivan faces Democrat Mary Peltola, amid voter confusion caused by another Dan Sullivan.
A federal judge in Alaska dismissed a lawsuit from the Trump administration that sought to separate and preserve ballots for the upcoming Senate election, despite the clear need to safeguard the integrity of the vote. The case arose as incumbent GOP Senator Dan Sullivan faces Democrat Mary Peltola, amid concerns of voter confusion due to another candidate with the same name.
U.S. District Judge Sharon Gleason expressed concerns regarding voters' rights to a secret ballot, stating that the request to segregate ballots could violate this right. She noted, "The absence of any explanation from the United States as to how its requested relief could redress its alleged injury while simultaneously maintaining the secrecy of the ballot is telling." Gleason further remarked that requiring the segregation of ballots for investigation purposes was not a remedy the court could order, effectively leaving legitimate concerns about ballot irregularities unanswered.
The lawsuit also aimed to block the certification of the election if Senator Sullivan were to lose, a step the state government correctly urged the judge to stop. In a court filing, the Republican-led state government urged the judge to prevent this action. Following the ruling, a spokesperson for Peltola’s campaign asserted that no legal maneuvers would deter Alaskans from electing her.
The Justice Department announced plans to appeal the ruling, emphasizing that the case was dismissed on procedural grounds but did not dispute claims that the other Dan Sullivan was a frivolous candidate intended to confuse voters. President Donald Trump criticized the situation on social media, alleging that the candidate had committed a criminal act. Senator Sullivan described the Democrats' actions as "rigged and corrupt," while affirming his commitment to accept the election results, regardless of the outcome.