On January 12, 2026, Mary Peltola officially entered the race for the U.S. Senate, challenging Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan in what is expected to be one of Alaska’s most closely watched statewide elections in years.
Peltola, who made history in 2022 as the first Alaska Native elected to Congress, is now seeking to bring her community-first approach and bipartisan track record to the Senate. Her candidacy reflects a growing push for Indigenous representation in high federal office and comes at a time when many Alaskans are voicing frustration with business-as-usual politics in Washington.
In her campaign video, Peltola reaffirmed her values of “fish, family, and freedom,” emphasizing the need to protect Alaska’s fisheries, support working families, and strengthen the state’s independence from political gridlock. Her message focused on cost of living, food security, and rebuilding trust in government by centering local priorities over national party agendas.
A Historic Candidacy
If elected, Peltola would be among the first Alaska Native women to serve in the U.S. Senate. Her campaign builds on her previous experience representing Alaska’s at-large congressional district, where she developed a reputation for bridge-building and pragmatic leadership.
Peltola’s candidacy carries deep significance for Native voters across Alaska, especially given the state’s use of ranked-choice voting and its large rural and tribal population. With Indigenous communities spread across remote regions, her understanding of rural health care, subsistence rights, and infrastructure challenges gives her a strong foundation for building support statewide.
The Race Ahead
Peltola will face Senator Dan Sullivan, a two-term Republican who has maintained strong party backing and national fundraising support. While Alaska has leaned red in recent federal elections, the state’s independent streak and ranked-choice voting system create opportunities for candidates who can appeal across political divides.
Observers say Peltola’s focus on bipartisan cooperation, combined with her personal story and broad appeal, could make this one of the most competitive Senate races in the country.
Why It Matters
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Peltola brings firsthand experience from Alaska’s tribal communities and a deep understanding of rural issues, fishing economies, and subsistence culture.
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Her candidacy continues the momentum of increased Native political participation and visibility at the national level.
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The race offers an opportunity to shift political dynamics in a key Senate seat while elevating voices that are often underrepresented in federal policymaking.
