Trump rallies for Sullivan in Alaska as Senate race tightens

President Donald Trump held a rally Tuesday in Wasilla, Alaska, to support Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan's bid for a third term. The visit signals Republican concern over a race that has grown unexpectedly competitive in a state that has not elected a Democratic senator since 2008.

Sullivan faces former Rep. Mary Peltola, who is campaigning on an "Alaska First" platform centered on cost-of-living issues. An MS NOW-Fifty Plus One poll cited by MSNBC shows Peltola leading Sullivan by three points.

“You look at the things he's done. He would call me all the time because I think — I definitely know — nobody has helped Alaska like Donald Trump.”

Alaska pollster Ivan Moore told News4Jax and PBS NewsHour that Trump's statewide support has declined alongside his national approval ratings. Moore said the race may hinge on 2024 Trump voters who are now uncertain about backing him again.

High gasoline prices driven by the war with Iran and persistent inflation have damaged the president's standing. In Alaska, gas prices have hit an average of $5.02 per gallon, up from $3.87 a year ago, according to MSNBC.

Energy supply concerns are mounting ahead of winter. ENSTAR Natural Gas president John Sims warned roughly 60 large commercial customers they may face shortages when demand increases, MSNBC reported.

Last month, Trump and Sullivan announced a South Korean commitment to invest $54 billion in an Alaska natural gas pipeline project. A top South Korean official later said participation had not been finalized.

Trump's Alaska stop is part of a western swing that includes rallies in Arizona and Montana on Wednesday.