Senator Lisa Murkowski endorsed Democratic nominee Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins for governor of her home state on Tuesday.

The Alaska Republican made the announcement in an interview with KTUU's Rebecca Palsha. "I am announcing my endorsement of Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins," Murkowski said. "JKT is young Alaskan with a view and a perspective that I think Alaska needs right now."

Kreiss-Tomkins, a former state representative from Sitka known as JKT, is the sole Democrat in the race. He has had favorable showings in recent polling, including a September New York Times/Siena survey showing him at about 40 percent among likely voters with Republican candidates trailing.

Murkowski has a history of backing Democrats. She previously endorsed Rep. Mary Peltola in her 2024 reelection bid, though Peltola lost to Republican Nick Begich.

The senator stated her focus remains on serving all Alaskans regardless of party. "My directive is to serve the people of the state of Alaska. And that does mean Republicans and it does mean Democrats and means Independents and it means people who choose not to be affiliated with any party at all," she said.

Kreiss-Tomkins has built a coalition that includes labor unions, fishing groups, and former governors. He has also raised more campaign funds than his three Republican opponents combined, according to recent finance reports.

The endorsement drew sharp criticism from Republican leaders. Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor expressed disappointment that Murkowski would endorse a Democrat for governor. "What is particularly disappointing is Senator Lisa Murkowski’s decision to cross party lines and endorse a Democrat for governor," Taylor stated. "Alaskans deserve leadership that protects their PFDs, respects their hard-earned money, and prioritizes fiscal responsibility over additional taxation."

President Trump has repeatedly labeled Murkowski one of the worst Republicans in the Senate. Conservative commentators and Alaska GOP officials condemned the move as a betrayal that weakens the party's chances in the governor's race. Several prominent figures called for Murkowski to face a primary challenge in her next Senate bid.

The endorsement comes just one week before the November election. Alaska's open primary left Republicans divided among multiple candidates, while Kreiss-Tomkins has consolidated Democratic support.

Murkowski's latest move comes amid ongoing tensions within the Republican Party in Alaska, where she has often operated independently of national GOP priorities.