Mr. President, I come to the floor this evening to speak about legislation that I have recently introduced as chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee, alongside my friend Vice Chairman Schatz. The bill that we have introduced is the Native Children Commission Implementation Act. Before I get started explaining our legislation, I want to recognize the Tribal leaders, the elders, the youth, the children, and the families who flew in last week for a congressional staff briefing to share their perspectives on the bill and the importance of it but also to help educate members and staff about the…
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+2$949K raised
Lisa Murkowski
Senator · Alaska · Republican
Lisa Murkowski
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
Madam President, I come to the floor today to congratulate my friend and former colleague in the Alaska State Legislature. This is an individual for whom I have great respect, Senator Lyman Hoffman. Senator Hoffman is retiring after nearly four decades of service to Alaska. Few legislators leave behind legacies that are measured not only by their years of service but by the generations of lives they have improved. Senator Hoffman--the alltime longest serving member of the Alaska State Legislature--is one of those rare public servants.
Madam President, like so many of us here in the Senate and really across the country, I think we have all been watching the news this weekend to see whether or not we would have an announcement from the Trump administration on a possible agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ensure that Iran never develops a nuclear weapon, among other objectives. I think the news this morning was promising, and we are all waiting to see what the contours of that agreement will be.
Biography
Lisa Murkowski, who began her career as an attorney in Anchorage, has served as U.S. Senator for Alaska since 2002. She is known for prioritizing energy policy, environmental stewardship, and rural healthcare access, championing issues critical to Alaska’s unique landscape and communities. Murkowski authored significant legislation advancing Arctic energy development and played a key role as chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Her pragmatic approach and independent voting record reflect a commitment to representing Alaskans’ diverse interests with practical solutions.
Education
- J.D., Willamette College of Law, Salem, OR1985
- Attended, Willamette University
- B.A. in Economics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 1978–80
Professional History
U.S. Senator
2003–PresentSenator from Alaska. 5 terms.
Member, Alaska House of Representatives
1999–2002Member, Task Force on the Homeless
1990–91Attorney, Private Law Practice
1989–98Attorney, Anchorage District Court
1987–89
Policy Focus
Native Americans11%
Health7%
Public Lands and Natural Resources6%
Taxation3%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Lisa Murkowski's record in Congress.
Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act Amendments
Championed updates to ANCSA, improving land and resource management for Alaska Native corporations.
Energy Policy Modernization Act
Led bipartisan passage of comprehensive energy legislation promoting efficiency, renewables, and grid modernization.
Medicaid Expansion for Alaska
Supported efforts enabling Alaska to expand Medicaid, increasing healthcare access for thousands of residents.
Arctic National Wildlife Refuge Oil Leasing
Secured authorization for oil and gas leasing in ANWR, advancing Alaska’s resource development interests.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on Indian AffairsChairman
- Senate Committee on Appropriations
- Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
- Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
Sen. Lisa Murkowski FAQ
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