Trump administration sues to block possible Democratic win in Alaska

What the report says

The Trump administration has filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking to delay certification of Alaska’s Senate election, according to Al Jazeera. The case centers on an independent candidate, Daniel J Sullivan, whose name closely matches that of Republican incumbent Senator Dan Sullivan, who is running for re-election. The Justice Department argues that the similarity could mislead voters and distort the result, and it wants time to investigate whether ballots cast for Daniel J Sullivan were intended for the senator.

Al Jazeera reported that the filing comes with just over a week left before the US midterm elections, adding to concerns among Democrats and voting rights advocates that the administration may try to influence closely contested races. The article notes that the Justice Department has recently taken other actions involving Democratic critics of President Donald Trump, which some opponents view as politically motivated. Attorney General Todd Blanche, however, said the department would not interfere with elections or state certification absent extreme circumstances.

The dispute is especially significant because Alaska could help determine control of the US Senate. Al Jazeera said Senator Sullivan is facing a difficult race against former Democratic Representative Mary Peltola, with polls showing a very close contest. Alaska’s ranked-choice system means voters can select both Sullivans if needed, and the state Supreme Court previously rejected an effort to remove Daniel J Sullivan from the ballot.