US Justice Department Widens Probe Into Alaska Senate Race

Can a federal investigation shape an election while ballots are still being cast? The Trump administration has expanded its probe into Alaska's US Senate race, alleging Democrats fielded a sham candidate to confuse voters so the Republican would lose. Federal prosecutors sent target letters to several people on Tuesday in Alaska.

One letter went to Democratic Party attorney Marc Elias, who was warned he could become a defendant in a future indictment. Elias said he would not be intimidated and called the effort a sham investigation. AP, citing a person briefed on the matter, reported that more than one hundred subpoenas have already been issued.

Republican Senator Dan Sullivan faces former Democratic congresswoman Mary Peltola in a contest that could help decide Senate control. A newcomer also named Dan Sullivan appears on the ballot, and Democrats deny recruiting him. The Justice Department earlier failed to persuade a court to block certification if the incumbent loses.