# Sullivan refuses to distance himself from Trump

> Alaska's Republican senator is betting that loyalty to Trump will help him win reelection in November, even as he dodges questions about the president's most controversial policies.
- Title: Sullivan refuses to distance himself from Trump · Politico
- Summary: Alaska's Republican senator is betting that loyalty to Trump will help him win reelection in November, even as he dodges questions about the president's most…
- Keywords: dan sullivan, alaska senate, donald trump, 2026 elections, republican strategy, reelection campaign, politics, news, Sullivan, refuses, distance, himself
- Source: Politico — https://politico.com/news/2026/10/17/alaska-senate-sullivan-trump-peltola-01125231
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dan sullivan, alaska senate, donald trump, 2026 elections, republican strategy, reelection campaign, politics, news
## Sullivan's Trump strategy
Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska is refusing to distance himself from President Donald Trump ahead of his November reelection bid, betting that loyalty will help him win.
## Dodging questions on Iran war
Asked whether the economic pain from the war with Iran has been worth it for Alaskans, Sullivan blamed Democrats instead, saying the real economic pain comes when they gain control.

> The real economic pain is when Democrats get control
## Trump's dividend promise unclear
Trump promised voters five thousand dollar dividends if Republicans hold Congress at a rally for Sullivan in Wasilla on Tuesday. Sullivan said he had not evaluated the proposal.

> I've got to look at the legislation. I don't know
## Repeated refusals at events
During a candidate debate, at an economic forum, and in an interview this week, Sullivan repeatedly declined chances to criticize Trump's most unpopular policies and positions.
## The balancing act
Sullivan is walking a line between supporting Trump and avoiding his most controversial positions, a strategy he believes will help him secure reelection in November.
## Unlike other vulnerable Republicans
Sullivan's approach differs from many other vulnerable Republicans who have tried to distance themselves from Trump as they face reelection challenges.
## Key takeaway

Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska is refusing to criticize President Trump ahead of his November reelection bid, declining to distance himself from Trump's unpopular policies.