Peltola and Sullivan Clash in Alaska Senate Debate

Mary Peltola and Sen. Dan Sullivan clashed over prepared notes, allegations about her treatment of former staff and prospective investment in an Alaska liquefied natural gas pipeline during a Senate debate on Thursday, October 15. The debate brought several campaign disputes into a public exchange between the Democratic challenger and the Republican incumbent. Peltola appeared to consult bullet-point notecards while answering questions. Sullivan questioned whether candidates had received the questions in advance, and moderators Wil Courtney and Lori Townsend said they had not. Peltola responded that she was better prepared. The exchange drew attention during the debate, though the available accounts describe the same footage and interaction. The candidates also argued over allegations concerning Peltola’s former staff. Sullivan cited reporting by The New York Times and claimed that 25 employees had quit while working for her. Peltola called the allegations fabrications or mass exaggerations and said the election should not be about her worst day. The candidates spoke over one another, prompting moderators to call for decorum and warn that microphones could be turned off if...