Alaska Sen. Murkowski Endorses Democrat for Governor Against Trump Pick

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, endorsed Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins on Tuesday. The support extends to his nonpartisan lieutenant governor candidate, Zac Johnson. Murkowski’s move places her behind a Democrat in a crowded field for the state’s top executive post.

Murkowski described Kreiss-Tomkins as a common-sense leader with a known ability to work with others. She stated that Alaska’s future is too important to be hamstrung by partisan divisions. The senator emphasized the need for a serious conversation about the state’s fiscal future, energy costs, and economic growth. She said she believes the candidate is committed to serving all Alaskans regardless of party.

The endorsement lands in a ranked-choice voting contest that includes multiple Republican challengers. President Donald Trump has backed Bernadette Wilson, a Republican candidate in the race. Murkowski urged voters of every political stripe to evaluate the team closely. She said Alaska needs leaders who put the state first and expressed pride in supporting them.

Kreiss-Tomkins accepted the backing through a campaign release. He said he is honored to have the senator’s support. The candidate stated that Alaskans deserve a government that works through disagreements to make progress. He pledged to collaborate with the congressional delegation, the legislature, industry, and communities across the state. He described the effort as requiring cooperation rather than political conflict.