Democrats hoped Mary Peltola could flip a Republican Senate seat in Alaska, but her campaign faces turmoil. Former aides describe angry outbursts, slurs, and firings stretching back to her House tenure. Nine former staff members, interviewed anonymously, and over 100 text messages paint a picture of chaos. One aide alleged Peltola shoved a staffer; others reported her using slurs including the word “faggot” and “retarded.” Her demands included having aides feed crickets to her pet chameleon, Meatball. A major shake-up occurred just before the primary when she fired several longtime staffers. The campaign denied abusive behavior, citing her grief after losing her mother and husband Eugene in 2023. A spokesman, Harry Child, said she struggled with personal tragedies while serving in Congress and running campaigns. Still, several longtime associates described positive experiences.

The volatility extended to her congressional office, which had one of the highest staff turnover rates on Capitol Hill. Dan Sullivan, the Republican incumbent, remains her opponent in a race that could impact Senate control.

National Democrats still view her as a strong candidate despite the reports.