If There Is An Anti-Universe, It’s In Alaska
Alaskans are supposed to appreciate this, which is why they elected Murkowski’s father to the Senate four times and Ted Stevens seven times (and their one member of the House, Don Young, no less than 19 times). Lisa Murkowski just moved into Stevens’ seat on the all-important Appropriations Committee last year. And the recent outpouring of appreciation for Stevens, who died in a plane crash this month, seemed likely to buoy the incumbent’s traditional appeal.
Searching what we know for an explanation, then, we are left with two traditional considerations: endorsements and voter turnout. One we often over-emphasize, the other we should never forget.
Which kind of Alaska Republican was most motivated for this primary? The answer appears to be the populist, evangelical, anti-abortion Republicans who are likely to identify with the movement known as the Tea Party.