Trump Endorses Sen. Lisa Murkowski’s Opponent, Kelly Tshibaka, Says Senator ‘Has To Go’

Former President Donald Trump announced his endorsement of former Alaska Commissioner of Administration Kelly Tshibaka for a Senate seat Friday, a move that presents a major challenge to incumbent Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).

Murkowski repeatedly criticized Trump in his impeachment trial.

“Murkowski has got to go,” Trump said in a statement delivered by Save America PAC.

“Kelly Tshibaka is the candidate who can beat Murkowski — and she will. Kelly is a fighter who stands for Alaska values and America First. She is MAGA all the way, pro-energy, strong on the Border, tough on Crime, and totally supports our Military and our great Vets. Kelly is a powerful supporter of the Second Amendment and JOBS! I look forward to campaigning in Alaska for Kelly Tshibaka. She has my Complete and Total Endorsement,” he added.

Tshibaka, the only major primary contender challenging Murkowski, said that the former president’s endorsement will help propel her Senate run.

“I am honored, excited, and grateful to have the support of the 45th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump,” Tshibaka said in the statement. “To have his strong endorsement is great news for our campaign and even better news for the people of Alaska because it means we will be getting our Senate seat back from Lisa Murkowski.”