Murkowski downplays Trump attack: I’m here to govern, not campaign

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) on Wednesday downplayed the threat of President Trump targeting her recent healthcare votes for criticism, saying she’s not worried about the president hurting her prospects for reelection because she is focused on representing the people of Alaska. 

“Every day shouldn’t be about winning elections,” she said. “How about just doing a little bit of governing around here. That’s what I’m here for.”

Trump on Wednesday targeted Murkowski after her votes a day earlier on healthcare.

“Senator @lisamurkowski of the Great State of Alaska really let the Republicans, and our country, down yesterday,” Trump tweeted. “Too bad!”

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Murkowski on Tuesday joined Senate Democrats in voting against a procedural measure to begin debate on healthcare legislation.

Murkowski also voted against a key proposal repealing and replacing ObamaCare later in the day.

The Alaska Republican said she isn’t operating based on fear of being targeted in her 2022 election.

“Quite honestly, I don’t think it’s wise to be operating on a daily basis thinking about what, a statement or a response, that causes you to be fearful of your electoral prospects,” she said.

“We’re here to govern. We’re here to legislate. We’re here to represent the people that sent us here,” she said.