Senators Manchin, Murkowski endorse each other in bipartisan television interview

In a seldom-seen bipartisan interview on CNN’s State of the Union on Sunday, Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski (Ak.) and Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) endorsed each other in upcoming elections.

Talking to CNN’s Jake Tapper, the two senators gave each other their endorsements. Manchin endorsed Murkowski in her race this year against fellow Republican Kelly Tshibaka, who has been endorsed by former President Trump. 

“I’m endorsing my dear friend Lisa Murkowski. Alaska could only be so lucky to have her continue to serve them,” Manchin told Tapper. “It’s hypocritical to basically work with a person day-in and day-out, and then when they’re in cycle, you’re supposed to be against them because they have an R or D by their name,” he added.

Murkowski responded by saying she would endorse Manchin if he decided to run for re-election in 2024. She also spoke about her role in the GOP after she refused to support election fraud claims perpetuated by former President Trump and his allies.

“You’ve got to be comfortable enough in who you are and who you represent and why you’re here,” she said. “I’m not here to be the representative of the Republican party. I’m here to be the representative for Alaskan people, and I take that charge very, very seriously.”