Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy is reportedly planning to announce a 2028 Senate campaign against Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), according to undisclosed sources. The next Senate race in Alaska will focus on the seat held by Senator Dan Sullivan, but Dunleavy has signaled no intention of leaving his current role during his term.
Murkowski, a long-standing Republican figure, has previously clashed with former President Donald Trump, expressing disapproval of his leadership in 2021. Meanwhile, Dunleavy has maintained ties to Trump, having endorsed him in 2016 and frequently interacting with the administration despite the logistical challenges of his Alaska-based position. A source described Dunleavy as focused on Alaska’s interests, noting his preference for the state’s natural environment over Washington, D.C., though he acknowledges the necessity of federal engagement to achieve goals.
Trump has reportedly encouraged Dunleavy to run, and the governor’s political ambitions have drawn attention amid Murkowski’s uncertain plans. Murkowski has not confirmed whether she will seek re-election in 2028, stating her priority is serving Alaskans rather than electoral outcomes. She also declined to rule out a gubernatorial bid, though she acknowledged her responses to questions about potential campaigns were often lighthearted due to frequent inquiries.
