Alaska's top federal prosecutor, U.S. Attorney Michael Heyman, confirmed that a criminal investigation is underway over alleged efforts to recruit a would-be spoiler candidate in the state's Senate race.
The probe
The inquiry concerns whether anyone sought to recruit Daniel J. Sullivan, a retired schoolteacher whose name resembles that of Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan, in order to confuse voters. Reports say the investigation has run for months and intensified after The New York Times reported on alleged recruiting efforts tied to Democrat Mary Peltola's campaign. The Justice Department has issued subpoenas in the case.
Denials
Peltola's campaign and Sullivan Jr. have denied coordinating. Alaska's governor has separately ordered a state investigation.
Sources: NPR, Associated Press