Justice Department Seeks to Block Alaska Election Certification in Sullivan Race
The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit at President Donald Trump’s request seeking to block Alaska from certifying its upcoming midterm election results if Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan loses, administration officials confirmed on Sunday. Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the legal action during an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union, denying that the administration aims to interfere with state-run voting.
Attorney General Blanche Defends DOJ Lawsuit on CNN
Appearing on national television, Blanche insisted that the president is not laying groundwork to contest the outcome of the midterm elections, which take place in just over one week. “President Trump is not trying to take over a state election in any way, shape or form,” Blanche stated during the contentious interview. When pressed by CNN anchors about the specific criminal statute the administration alleges is being broken, Blanche acknowledged uncertainty, answering, “Well, it depends.” He added that a crime might exist, but emphasized that the core wrong centers on voter confusion preventing Alaskans from having their votes heard.
Competitive Alaska Senate Race Heightens Partisan Stakes
The Justice Department intervention targets a contest where incumbent Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan faces a surprisingly competitive challenge from former Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola. Sullivan is facing a challenge from a retired elementary school teacher who shares his name. The federal lawsuit has heightened Democratic fears that the Trump administration could try to undermine the integrity of the midterm elections.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Alaska Election Lawsuit
What specific legal authority is the Justice Department using to challenge the Alaska election?
Attorney General Todd Blanche did not cite a specific criminal statute during his CNN interview, stating instead that “it depends” on whether a crime occurred while emphasizing voter confusion as the primary wrong.
Who are the primary candidates running against Senator Dan Sullivan?
Sullivan is facing a competitive challenge from former Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola, as well as a retired elementary school teacher who shares his name.
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When are the midterm elections taking place?
The midterm elections are scheduled to take place in just over one week from the announcement of the lawsuit.