The leading candidates in Alaska's U.S. Senate race are vying for support from Alaska Native voters, a key constituency, in the weeks leading up to the Nov. 3 election. Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan and Democratic former Rep. Mary Peltola both addressed the Alaska Federation of Natives conference in Anchorage this week.
The Alaska Federation of Natives, which previously endorsed Peltola in her House races, did not issue endorsements this year. However, both candidates have publicized support from Native organizations and leaders. Sealaska Corp., a regional Native corporation, has endorsed both Sullivan and Peltola, citing a desire to "honor their contributions and commitment to our communities, and to honor the diverse positions of our shareholders."
The race is considered nationally significant, with control of the Senate at stake. Earlier this month, President Donald Trump held a rally in support of Sullivan and later stated he had instructed his administration to sue to block the certification of the election results if Sullivan loses. The lawsuit cites potential confusion arising from another candidate listed on the ranked choice ballot as Daniel J. Sullivan Jr., who is listed without a party designation, unlike the incumbent Republican Sen. Sullivan.
Alaska Natives constitute approximately one-fifth of the state's population. Advocates have raised concerns in recent years about voting challenges in remote communities, including late-opening polling locations and delayed ballot arrivals that can hinder timely counting.
Dallas Goldtooth, an actor and activist, acknowledged the existing "hesitations about whether whoever they vote for is actually going to impact them." He emphasized the importance of ensuring "your voice is counted" by participating in the election.
Sheri Buretta, chair of the board of Chugach Alaska Corp., introduced Sen. Sullivan at the conference, calling him "one of our strongest champions." Sullivan spoke about lessons learned from Native leaders and highlighted his work on issues such as ensuring Alaska Native Vietnam War-era veterans have access to land allotments.
Peltola, speaking at a candidate forum, addressed the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people, calling for additional law enforcement resources. She also expressed a commitment to protecting fisheries, which she described as critical to many Native communities and her "life's work."
Energy policy is another significant issue, particularly for Native communities. Peltola stated that Alaska Natives are being "absolutely crushed" by high energy costs exacerbated by the war with Iran, while Sullivan contends that Democrats' energy policies represent a "forever war" against Alaskan energy production.
Native leaders on the North Slope, an oil-rich region, view responsible oil drilling as vital to their economy. Many felt their concerns were not adequately addressed during the Biden administration, which sought to restrict drilling in areas like the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. While Sullivan and his allies have sought to portray Peltola as aligned with "Lower 48 liberals" who oppose increased drilling, Peltola has stated her support for expanded oil and gas drilling and a willingness to work with Trump on the issue.