By THE ALASKA STORY
April 17, 2026 – US Sen. Dan Sullivan has secured the endorsement of the United Fishermen of Alaska, a move his that reinforces the strong support from one of the state’s most influential industry groups.
The United Fishermen of Alaska, which represents dozens of commercial fishing organizations across the state, announced its backing of Sullivan on Friday, citing Sullivan’s track record of advocacy for fisheries, coastal communities, and marine ecosystems.
“UFA’s endorsement of Senator Sullivan is a result of his demonstrated leadership and effectiveness in advancing the interests of Alaska’s fisheries and fishermen across the state,” said UFA President Matt Alward. “Time and time again, Dan Sullivan has stood up for Alaska fishermen and coastal communities.”
The endorsement places the organization squarely behind the incumbent as he seeks re-election, even as former Congresswoman Mary Peltola has emphasized her own ties to Alaska’s fishing industry on the campaign trail.
Peltola has frequently highlighted her background and has posed with fish, in fishing boats, and holding a sport reel upside down, and positions herself as closely aligned with fishing communities. But the UFA endorsement signals that at least one of the state’s largest and most established commercial fishing groups is not persuaded.
Sullivan has legislative wins as part of his record, including the bipartisan Save Our Seas Act, aimed at reducing marine debris, and the Alaska Salmon Research Task Force Act, which established a collaborative effort to study declining salmon runs and improve long-term fisheries management.
In a statement, Sullivan said Alaska’s fishermen are central to the state’s economy and culture.
“I’m honored to have the support of the United Fishermen of Alaska—which represents a broad cross section of Alaska fishermen in coastal communities—and will continue fighting every day to strengthen opportunities for our fishermen and the numerous Alaska communities who support them,” he said.
The UFA endorsement adds to a growing list of organizations supporting Sullivan’s campaign, reinforcing his standing with key job and family groups as the race develops. Other endorsements include:
- Alaska Teamsters Local 959, one of Alaska’s largest private-sector labor unions (representing over 5,000 workers). They endorsed him in mid-January.
- Alaska Support Industry Alliance (The Alliance), which represents more than 550 companies in oil, gas, and mining support sectors. The group endorsed on February 25.
- Log Cabin Republicans (via LCR PAC), endorsed Sullivan as part of their first wave of 2026 candidates in early February 2026, citing his alignment with conservative principles on small government, individual responsibility, and equality under the law.
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Key names listed on Sullivan’s campaign site include leaders from Calista Corporation, Chugach Corporation, Old Harbor Native Corporation, NANA Corporation, and others.
