Alaska Senator Murkowski Endorses Democrat in Governor Race

Alaska’s governor’s race features ranked-choice voting among multiple candidates. Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski announced her endorsement of Democratic candidate Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins on Tuesday.

Murkowski also backed Zac Johnson, the nonpartisan lieutenant governor candidate running on the same ticket. She made the announcement in comments to KTUU. Murkowski described Kreiss-Tomkins as a common-sense guy who has a known ability to be working together.

The endorsement places Murkowski at odds with President Donald Trump. Trump has supported Republican Bernadette Wilson for the top spot. Several Republicans are competing in the race.

In a campaign press release, Murkowski stated that the state’s future is too important to be hamstrung by partisan divisions. She emphasized the need to listen to different perspectives. She identified the fiscal future, energy costs, and economic growth as key priorities for the state.

Murkowski urged voters of all political stripes to examine the ticket. She said, "Alaska needs leaders who will put our state first, and I'm proud to support them."

Kreiss-Tomkins responded in the same release. He said he was honored by the support. He added that the work requires cooperation, not political conflict, to move the state forward.