Trump’s Visit to Alaska Boosts Sullivan and Wilson’s Campaigns

President Donald Trump traveled to Alaska on Tuesday to support Republican Senator Dan Sullivan’s reelection bid and promote Bernadette Wilson in the state’s gubernatorial race. Trump’s visit comes as Republicans work to retain control of Congress.

During a rally in Anchorage, Trump endorsed Wilson, calling her a “fantastic choice” to succeed term-limited Governor Mike Dunleavy. Wilson was the leading Republican in Alaska’s August primary. However, three Republicans remain in the gubernatorial race, which could divide party support. Wilson competes against Republicans Treg Taylor and Dave Bronson, along with Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins.

Trump acknowledged the challenges of having multiple Republicans in the race. “It’s tough. Think of it: You have three Republicans against one Democrat. That’s crazy,” he said, suggesting the other two Republicans should withdraw in favor of Wilson.

Wilson expressed gratitude for Trump’s endorsement on X, stating she was “incredibly honored” and looked forward to collaborating with his administration. Trump also criticized Alaska’s ranked choice voting system, labeling it a “phony rigged deal,” and wished Wilson luck, acknowledging the difficulty she faces.

Alaska voters will soon decide whether to repeal the state’s open primary and ranked choice general election system. A similar repeal failed narrowly in 2024.

Supporting “The Real” Dan Sullivan

Trump aimed to bolster Sullivan’s bid for a third Senate term amid a challenging election for Republicans. Sullivan faces Democrat Mary Peltola, a former congresswoman. Historically, Alaska has favored Republicans in statewide elections, with Democrats last winning a Senate race in 2008 and the governorship in 1998.

Despite Alaska’s Republican tendency, rising gas prices and inflation might offer Democrats an opportunity. Peltola has focused her campaign on the cost of living, particularly regarding gas prices.

Trump emphasized Sullivan as the “real Dan Sullivan,” distinguishing the incumbent from Dan J. Sullivan, a retired teacher who is also running. Trump accused Democrats of promoting the latter to confuse voters. Before Trump’s speech, Sullivan criticized Peltola’s energy strategies. “Democrats like Mary Peltola would rather import oil and gas from Mexico than drill it in Alaska,” Sullivan commented on X. “What’re we gonna do? Keep the Senate and build the line.”

Newsweek reached out for Peltola’s campaign comment via email Tuesday night.

Rally Attendance and Support

Videos showed a packed venue, and Sullivan reported about 10,000 people watching outside on a Jumbotron. Trump acknowledged his long journey to Alaska, affirming he wouldn’t cancel the visit. He termed Alaska a “special place,” citing his family’s connection through his grandfather.

Before Trump spoke, Dunleavy described him as “probably the best friend…ever in the history of the state.”

Trump’s Pardons and Proposals

During his speech, Trump issued unconditional pardons for Alaska business owners Zachary Czubak and Patrick Fleming. These men co-operated Arm Rippin Toys, an Anchorage vehicle repair shop, and pleaded guilty to Clean Air Act violations. Trump criticized their prosecution, saying, “They want to put them in jail for 10 years because they fixed an engine.”

Czubak thanked Trump, while Fleming encouraged voters to reelect Sullivan and Representative Nick Begich.

Trump promoted the proposed Alaska LNG project, which aims to transport natural gas via an 800-mile pipeline from Alaska’s North Slope. Although federal permitting concluded in December 2025, construction remains unstarted. Trump announced Taiwan’s agreement to purchase 30 percent of the gas output for 20 years and invest over $4 billion, though Taiwanese officials haven’t confirmed this.

He highlighted a proposed $162 million investment in Alaska’s high-speed internet. FCC Chair Brendan Carr announced the agency’s vote on the proposal later in October. Carr committed to ensuring high-speed internet access for all Alaskans.

Protester Interrupts Speech

During Trump’s remarks, a protester was escorted out, prompting some crowd members to boo. Trump mocked the protester, suggesting he returned home to his parents, “who both voted for me, by the way.”

Alaska’s general election is set for November 3, with early voting starting October 19. Voters will determine the gubernatorial race and congressional contests as Republicans seek to maintain control over Congress.