Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy is reportedly preparing for a 2028 U.S. Senate run against incumbent Senator Lisa Murkowski, according to sources close to him who spoke to Fox News. Dunleavy, a staunch Trump ally since 2016, would challenge Murkowski, who is often seen as one of the most moderate Republicans in Congress and a frequent critic of Trump. This potential face-off signals a growing divide within the GOP, with Dunleavy representing the pro-Trump faction of the party.
Sources say Dunleavy will not resign early from his current term, unlike former Governor Sarah Palin, who left office in 2009 and never fully recovered politically. Those close to Dunleavy emphasize his results-oriented leadership style and distaste for Washington’s spotlight, saying he prefers Alaska’s rugged terrain to “all this concrete.” Still, he acknowledges that working from Washington may be necessary to effect real change on behalf of Alaskans.
Dunleavy has maintained a close relationship with Trump, being one of the first governors to endorse him in 2016 and attending key events, including Trump’s August 2025 meeting with Vladimir Putin in Anchorage. Trump has reportedly encouraged Dunleavy to run for Senate, recognizing him as a valuable political ally in the MAGA movement.
Despite Alaska’s historically tough political terrain for governors seeking reelection, Dunleavy is considered a strong contender. His appeal extends beyond the conservative base, with notable support among Alaska Native communities and rural regions, thanks to his focus on energy development and education.
Lisa Murkowski, known for her political resilience, including a successful 2010 write-in campaign, would be facing her most formidable challenger yet. Analysts believe Dunleavy’s broad support and alignment with Trump could pose a serious threat to Murkowski’s seat, especially under Alaska’s ranked-choice voting system.
The potential 2028 Senate race would mark a high-stakes clash between two major Alaskan figures: Murkowski, the seasoned moderate with deep family political roots, and Dunleavy, the pragmatic, Trump-aligned governor gaining momentum beyond conservative circles.
