Before Alaska's Two Dan Sullivans, JFK Had Two Joe Russos
Summary
The article compares the Alaska Senate race involving two candidates named Dan Sullivan with John F. Kennedy’s 1946 Democratic primary campaign, which included two candidates named Joe Russo. Historical accounts allege that Kennedy’s campaign arranged for a second Russo to enter the race to confuse voters or divide support, though it is unclear whether Kennedy knew about the plan.Key Facts
- The Trump administration sued to block certification of Alaska’s Senate election if Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan loses, citing possible voter confusion with candidate Daniel J. Sullivan Jr.
- Alaska officials asked a federal judge to dismiss the lawsuit.
- The article says the November 3 Alaska contest could help determine control of the Senate.
- In 1946, Kennedy sought the Democratic nomination for Massachusetts’ 11th Congressional District.
- One opponent, Joseph Russo, was a Boston city councilor and funeral home owner with support among Italian American voters.
- The West End Museum says Kennedy campaign manager Joseph Kane paid a 27-year-old janitor named Joseph Russo to enter the race, potentially splitting votes.
- Accounts differ on the alleged arrangement, and it is unclear whether John F. Kennedy knew about it.
- In a 1964 oral history, the established Russo recalled advertising himself as the “Middle Russo” when other candidates with the same name appeared.
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