The two candidates named Dan Sullivan running for Alaska’s U.S. Senate seat will be distinguished on the ballot by their middle initials, a move required under state law to reduce voter confusion.

The unusual situation has injected a fresh dose of controversy into one of the country’s most competitive Senate races. Incumbent Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) is seeking another term while facing a challenge from former Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola, who is mounting a well-funded campaign in a state Democrats hope can help the party regain a Senate majority in 2026.