Alaska Republican Senator Dan Sullivan Appears to Copy Opponent's Answer During Debate
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During a televised debate, Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan looked to Democratic challenger Mary Peltola's response paddle before raising his own to indicate a "No" answer, prompting laughter from the audience.
Alaska Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan was seen copying his opponent's response during a live debate on Saturday. In a rapid-fire segment, candidates used paddles to signal "yes" or "no" answers. When Sullivan appeared to miss a question about the North Pacific Fishery Management Council and NOAA Fisheries, moderator Dan Sullivan, a moderator, prompted him again. Sullivan glanced at Democratic candidate Mary Peltola's paddle, then raised his own to display "No," after which he apologized and smiled.
Peltola posted the clip on X, writing, "Happy to help, Dan," and added that Alaskans need a senator who knows where they stand. The incident occurred amid a broader Senate race in which two candidates named Dan Sullivan appear on the ballot, the incumbent and a retired teacher running as a moderate Republican.
"Senator Sullivan, yes or no?" the moderator asked.
The audience reacted with laughter as the exchange unfolded.