Only Republican Senator to Vote to Defund DOGE: ‘Retribution Should Not Exist’

Murkowski Stands Alone in GOP Vote Against DOGE

Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, the only Republican in the Senate to vote for an amendment to defund the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), says she’s unfazed by potential political backlash — including possible primary challenges backed by powerful figures like Elon Musk. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

'Stop Being So Anxious': Murkowski Rejects Fear of Retribution

In an interview with The Washington Post, Murkowski emphasized the importance of independent thinking in Congress. "We’ve got to stop being so anxious and looking over our shoulders and saying, 'Oh, my gosh, am I going to offend somebody and there’s going to be political retribution?'" she said. "This is the United States of America. Political retribution should not be something that even exists." Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Defund DOGE Amendment Fails, But Murkowski Holds Ground

Murkowski’s vote earlier this month came as part of a failed amendment sponsored by Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, which aimed to curtail DOGE's operations. The amendment did not meet the 60-vote threshold, failing 48-52. Despite the loss, Murkowski stood alone among Republicans in support, citing concerns from her Alaskan constituents about potential federal job losses. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Concerns Over DOGE's Aggressive Cuts Drive Murkowski’s Vote

While she generally supports reducing government spending, Murkowski expressed reservations about DOGE’s aggressive strategies. The department has drawn criticism for its sweeping changes and their impact on federal workers. Tania Savayan/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Murkowski’s Ongoing Role in Republican Politics

Notably, Murkowski’s opposition hasn’t ended her ability to collaborate with the Trump administration, despite previously voting to convict him following the January 6 Capitol attack. She won her 2022 reelection bid against a Trump-endorsed candidate, further solidifying her role as a moderate outlier within the GOP. Thomas Cordy/The Palm Beach Post / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Murkowski Responds to Musk's Potential Political Challenge

During a press conference in Alaska, Murkowski addressed recent threats from Elon Musk to financially support her political challengers. "It may be that Elon Musk has decided he’s going to take the next billion dollars that he makes off of Starlink and put it directly against Lisa Murkowski," she said. "And you know what? That may happen." Still, she remained firm: "But I’m not giving up one minute, one opportunity, to try to stand up for Alaskans." Jack Gruber-USA TODAY