Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy Expected to Challenge Sen. Lisa Murkowski in 2028 Senate Race

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy is reportedly preparing for a potential run for the U.S. Senate in 2028, setting up what could be a high-stakes Republican primary battle against incumbent Senator Lisa Murkowski. Multiple sources close to Dunleavy, speaking with Fox News Digital this week, confirmed that the governor is actively considering the bid and has discussed it with key political allies.

If he enters the race, Dunleavy would challenge one of the most enduring and independent voices in the Senate. Murkowski, known for her moderate stance and frequent clashes with former President Donald Trump, has held her seat since 2002. In contrast, Dunleavy has aligned himself closely with Trump since the 2016 election and is seen as a loyal ally within the MAGA wing of the Republican Party.

One source familiar with Dunleavy’s thinking emphasized that he intends to serve out the remainder of his term as governor. “He’s committed to finishing the job he was elected to do,” said the source, who previously worked alongside Dunleavy in Juneau. “This isn’t a Sarah Palin situation—he’s not walking away early.”

The mention of Palin recalls her 2009 resignation as governor to pursue national ambitions—an exit that many observers say hurt her political credibility. Dunleavy, by contrast, is reportedly approaching the Senate run methodically and with a focus on legacy rather than spotlight.

Though Dunleavy has often kept a low profile on the national stage, those close to him say his political record speaks volumes. “He’s not in it for the cameras or the cocktail circuit,” said a former aide. “He’s about results. That’s why people across Alaska respect him.”

Still, the idea of serving in Washington has become more appealing to Dunleavy, insiders say, particularly as he sees the need to represent Alaska’s unique challenges at the federal level. While he’s joked in the past about preferring Alaska’s rugged terrain to Washington, D.C.’s “concrete jungle,” he recognizes the importance of having a strong advocate for the state in Congress.

Dunleavy has maintained a close relationship with Trump, being one of the first governors to endorse him in 2016 and frequently visiting the White House throughout Trump’s term. According to sources, Trump has encouraged Dunleavy to pursue a Senate seat and views him as a reliable conservative voice for the state.

Earlier this month, Dunleavy participated in a private meeting involving Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. The event further cemented his role as a trusted Trump ally and a key figure in Alaska’s political landscape.

Despite his conservative alignment, Dunleavy has managed to build coalitions that extend beyond traditional GOP bases. He has focused extensively on issues important to Alaska Native communities, including energy development, rural education, and infrastructure projects. His efforts have earned him respect in regions such as the North Slope and western Alaska—areas where Murkowski has historically maintained strong support.

“Murkowski has never faced a challenger quite like him,” one political strategist said. “He’s not just a conservative alternative—he’s someone with broad statewide appeal.”

Political observers note that Alaska’s unique ranked-choice voting system could again play a crucial role in determining the outcome. While critics argue that the system benefits Democrats, both Murkowski and Dunleavy have proven their ability to succeed under it. Murkowski notably won re-election in 2022 despite opposition from Trump, thanks in part to support from independents and moderates.

However, Dunleavy’s name recognition, executive experience, and deep ties to the Trump base could make him her toughest challenger yet. “There’s a lot of frustration with Murkowski among conservatives,” said another source close to the governor. “Dunleavy represents a new direction—one that’s more aligned with where the Republican Party is heading.”

Lisa Murkowski is no stranger to tough battles. In 2010, she made national headlines by winning a historic write-in campaign after losing the GOP primary to Tea Party candidate Joe Miller. But this time, analysts say, she may face an opponent with stronger institutional support and broader cross-party appeal.

The potential 2028 Senate race could become one of Alaska’s most closely watched political contests in decades. It would pit Murkowski, the seasoned centrist with deep political roots, against Dunleavy, the results-focused governor with growing national conservative backing.

As one top political analyst put it: “This would be more than just a primary—it would be a referendum on the future of the Republican Party in Alaska.