Senator Lisa Murkowski speaking at a hearing
Statue of William Seward near Alaska Capitol
Senator Murkowski during Doug Burgum’s nomination hearing
Senator Murkowski arriving for Trump’s impeachment trial
Senator Murkowski questioning Secretary Haaland
Senator Murkowski at a budget hearing with Secretary Haaland
Senator Murkowski entering Senate chambers for trial

Senator Lisa Murkowski speaking at a hearing

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) has repeatedly criticized President Donald Trump on immigration and budgeting. Frustrated with the two-party system, she has noted that despite her concerns with Republican leadership, she doesn’t see the Democrats as a better option. With the Senate GOP facing electoral challenges approaching 2026, some believe Murkowski may align with Democrats or run as an independent.

Statue of William Seward near Alaska Capitol

Murkowski stated, “There may be a possibility.” She added, “There is some openness to exploring something different than the status quo.”

Senator Murkowski during Doug Burgum’s nomination hearing

Murkowski said, “My problem with your hypothetical is that as challenged as I think we may be on the Republican side, I don't see the Democrats being much better.” She added, “And they've got not only their share of problems, but quite honestly, they've got some policies that I just inherently disagree with.”

Senator Murkowski arriving for Trump’s impeachment trial

Murkowski expressed uncertainty about fully aligning with a party shift, citing policy disagreements that make her feel out of place. She emphasized that her priority is effectively representing her Alaskan constituents.

Senator Murkowski questioning Secretary Haaland

Murkowski stated, “Do I feel that within my Republican conference, I always feel like I'm right here in my political home? No. There's some directions and policies that I disagree with.”

Senator Murkowski at a budget hearing with Secretary Haaland

Murkowski added, “Have I considered it? Yes, because I’ve been asked the question.” She added, “It's an interesting hypothetical," adding that she would only leave "if this would help Alaskans.”

Senator Murkowski entering Senate chambers for trial

Murkowski concluded, "This is one of things I think is good and healthy for us. We’ve kind of embraced a governing style that says if you’ve got good ideas … it doesn’t make any difference if you’re a Republican or a Democrat, we can govern together for the good of the state."

John Baker covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.