(AURN News) — Democrats are asking a federal judge to dismiss a Justice Department lawsuit that seeks to block certification of a potential victory by former U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola in Alaska’s Senate race under certain conditions.
The department argues that another candidate, Daniel J. Sullivan, could mislead voters who intend to support Republican incumbent Sen. Dan Sullivan.
The department wants certification blocked pending an investigation if votes cast for Daniel J. Sullivan could have changed the outcome of a loss by the incumbent. Peltola’s campaign and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee filed their dismissal request Sunday.
They argue that the DOJ is improperly using the National Voter Registration Act to claim authority over candidate names and election certification.
They also point out that the ballot identifies Sen. Dan Sullivan as the incumbent, distinguishing him from Daniel J. Sullivan. They also say the department has not presented facts showing actual voter confusion.
Alaskans could cast their ballots, finish the count, and face a federal court fight over whether their Senate results become official.
The Alaska case comes amid a broader DOJ push to obtain state voter registration records.
