Murkowski picks Democrat for Alaska governor

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, has thrown her weight behind Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins. Her endorsement places her directly at odds with President Donald Trump, who has backed Republican Bernadette Wilson in the crowded race.

The governor’s contest in Alaska uses ranked-choice voting, meaning multiple candidates from various parties compete for the top spot. Murkowski’s move creates a notable split within the state’s Republican establishment. She told KTUU that Kreiss-Tomkins is a common-sense guy with a known ability to work together.

In a statement released by the Kreiss-Tomkins campaign, Murkowski argued that the state’s future is too important to be hamstrung by partisan divisions. She emphasized that effective governing requires listening to different perspectives and finding common ground to solve problems that affect all residents.

The senator identified several key priorities for the state, including a serious conversation about the fiscal future, the cost of energy, and economic growth. She stated her belief that Kreiss-Tomkins is committed to solutions that serve all Alaskans regardless of party affiliation.

Murkowski urged voters of every political stripe, including Republicans, independents, and Democrats, to take a close look at the ticket of Kreiss-Tomkins and nonpartisan lieutenant governor candidate Zac Johnson. She said Alaska needs leaders who will put the state first and expressed pride in supporting them.

Kreiss-Tomkins responded to the endorsement by saying he was honored by the senator’s support. He added that Alaskans deserve a government that can work through disagreements and make progress on issues that matter. The candidate said he is committed to working with the state’s congressional delegation, the legislature, industry, and communities to move the state forward through cooperation rather than political conflict.