Sen. Murkowski endorses Democrat in Alaska governor race over Trump-backed GOP

Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, has endorsed the Democratic candidate Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins for governor, according to NBC News. This endorsement comes just a week before the state's election day and contrasts with the GOP candidate Bernadette Wilson, who is supported by former President Donald Trump.

Murkowski, known for her occasional clashes with Trump, expressed that the GOP candidates for governor are too partisan. She described Kreiss-Tomkins as a young Alaskan with fresh energy and a commonsense approach, highlighting his ability to work collaboratively.

The endorsement signals a notable divergence within the Republican Party in Alaska, with Murkowski openly supporting a Democrat over a Trump-backed Republican candidate. This move underscores the ongoing divisions in GOP ranks ahead of the election.

The governor's race remains competitive as voters prepare to decide among multiple candidates, including the three Republicans Murkowski referenced as being too partisan.

Election results will reveal whether Murkowski's endorsement influences the outcome in Alaska's gubernatorial contest.