Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, a moderate Republican known for frequently opposing former President Donald Trump, is considering a potential departure from the GOP. While promoting her new book, Murkowski voiced dissatisfaction with both major political parties. In an interview with political analyst Galen Druke, she said, “Challenged as I think we may be on the Republican side, I don’t see the Democrats being much better,” adding that she has fundamental policy disagreements with them. When asked if she might leave the Republican Party, especially if the GOP loses Senate seats in the 2026 midterms, Murkowski responded, “There may be that possibility.” In a separate conversation with Semafor, she admitted she has thought about switching parties, saying she often feels politically out of step with her Republican colleagues. In her book, she criticizes the “so-called MAGA movement,” describing it as a “personality cult that has ripped us apart.”

Meanwhile, Senator Susan Collins of Maine, another moderate Republican often at odds with Trump and her party’s right wing, faces a challenging reelection campaign. With at least three primary challengers and two Democrats already in the race, her seat is a key target for Democrats. Collins is defending her record by emphasizing her seniority and the federal resources she has secured for Maine. She points to more than $1 billion in funding for statewide projects and her work co-authoring the Social Security Fairness Act. Despite her influence, Collins is likely to face intense scrutiny from both her party’s base and the Democratic opposition.