Sullivan, Peltola set to meet in televised debate in high-stakes Alaska US Senate race

In Alaska's fiercely contested U.S. Senate race, two prominent candidates have announced a televised debate to be held on Thursday. This high-stakes contest features Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan and Democrat challenger Mary Peltola, a former congresswoman. The debate comes just days after President Donald Trump visited the state to bolster backing for Sullivan.

This isn't the first face-off between the candidates, but it promises to be the most high-profile due to the significant attention surrounding the election. Trump's recent visits to Wasilla and Fairbanks, Sullivan's wife's hometown, highlight the importance of the race for both parties as they vie for control of the Senate.

To qualify for Thursday's debate, candidates must have garnered at least 5% of the vote in the August primary. Sullivan, a retired teacher, secured third place with around 2.5% of the vote, while Peltola emerged victorious. Notably, Dan J. Sullivan, who was labeled a "sham candidate" by his opponent and his supporters, finished third in the primary and has reportedly not received any invitations to participate in candidate forums.

Sullivan, backed by Trump as the "real Dan Sullivan," emphasized his record, vision, and character during an interview, criticizing Peltola's time in Congress as ineffective. Peltola, however, countered that she had a positive working relationship with Sullivan within their three-member congressional delegation, citing the approval of the major Willow oil project as one of her achievements.

The debate will also likely delve into the contentious issue of expanded oil and gas development, with Sullivan accusing Peltola of aligning with "Lower 48 liberals" who oppose such initiatives. Peltola dismissed this claim, arguing that the debate should focus on critical issues such as the war in Iran and rising fuel and other costs, and advocating for cooperation and problem-solving rather than fear-mongering tactics.