The state's Republican senator said the health care system is a mess and needs to be fixed. But the current proposals, she said, would saddle future generations with tremendous debt and hurt small businesses.
Murkowski acknowledged that people are frustrated with an issue that drives about one-sixth of the nation's economy, the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reported.
"This is too big to get wrong," she said, "and right now, I think we're going down the wrong track."
People filled the 384 seats in the Pioneer Park theater, where the forum was held, and another 150 sat in a nearby room with a live audio feed.
Though similar town-hall-style meetings have turned into free-for-alls across the U.S., Thursday's gathering was less confrontational.
Murkowski took some preventive measures. Comments were cut off at two minutes, and signs and standing were banned.
Murkowski said her office has received more than 5,000 letters, e-mails and phone calls from constituents, with many concerned about the speed with which a health care plan is being devised. President Obama wants a plan on his desk by Oct. 15.
"I am not committed to an arbitrary date that will make somebody be able to check the box and say we've passed health care reform," Murkowski said.
The audience applauded speakers who argued for less government involvement and less government spending. A few comments urging universal health care also drew support.
Rick Sikma of North Pole asked why the federal government thought it should even be involved in health care.
"I don't see that in the Constitution," he said.
Murkowski responded that Sikma was going to the "core" of the issue.
"Is this a right?" she asked.
"No," the audience replied.
People did call for tort reform and more individual responsibility, for greater government attention to unsafe food that makes people sick and overweight, and for boosting preventative care and wellness options.
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