Shockwaves in red state as Dem surges past incumbent Senate Republican in new poll

A new poll sent shockwaves through a reliably red state, as a Democratic former lawmaker narrowly led the incumbent U.S. Senate Republican.

An Alaska Survey Research poll conducted Jan. 8-11 found former Rep. Mary Peltola leading Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan 48 percent to 46.4 percent, with roughly 5.6 percent undecided, Newsweek reported. The margin of error sits at plus or minus 2 percentage points.

Republicans got an alarm bell as Peltola boasts a significantly more favorable rating than Sullivan: 46 percent positive versus his 39 percent. To boot, Sullivan's job approval took a hit, with just 36 percent approving while 44.5 percent disapprove.

The numbers suggest Alaska could be in play and may decide Senate control in November.

Peltola, the only Democrat to win statewide in recent years, has already hauled in $1.5 million in her campaign's first 24 hours.

Even so, Sullivan struck a confident tone on X, declaring, "I am so excited about 2026 and all of the opportunities ahead for our great state. The Alaska comeback is happening!”

Meanwhile, Peltola vowed to tackle "fish, family, and freedom," while targeting what she calls the "rigged system in DC that’s shutting down Alaska."

The news comes after Sullivan in July blocked Adm. Daryl Caudle, President Donald Trump's nominee for the top position in the Navy, to demand an extra benefit for his state, Politico reported Thursday.