Justice Department Escalates Criminal Probe into Alaska Senate Race Scheme

The Justice Department has significantly intensified its criminal investigation into the Alaska Senate race, preparing to issue dozens of grand jury subpoenas on Thursday. These subpoenas are intended to gather information regarding efforts to recruit a candidate bearing the same name as incumbent Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan, according to individuals familiar with the matter.

The escalation follows a New York Times report detailing the alleged scheme, which reportedly involved Democratic campaign officials. The report also indicated that Democratic candidate Mary Peltola was aware of these recruitment efforts.

Prosecutors are reportedly examining the possibility of bringing charges related to conspiracy to violate voters' rights. Last week, the Justice Department initiated a civil lawsuit, at the direction of President Trump, aimed at preventing the certification of election results if Sen. Sullivan were to lose to a candidate named Daniel J. Sullivan Jr., who was on the ballot.