Anchorage Daily News

U.S. Sen. Frank Murkowski became Alaska's first Republican governor in 20 years on Tuesday, seizing an early and commanding Election Night lead and never looking back. Democrat Fran Ulmer conceded defeat at about 10:45 p.m.

With votes from some 98 percent of Alaska precincts tallied, Murkowski led Ulmer by more than 30,000 votes out of about 200,000 counted. Four candidates from smaller parties trailed far behind.

Murkowski arrived at campaign central in Sullivan Arena late Tuesday with a contingent of sign-shaking backers and spoke briefly with Ulmer, who arrived earlier with her own supporters.

"I sincerely wish you the best and I hope you govern this state with patience, balance, wisdom, in a state of inclusion, where everybody has room at the table," Ulmer told the governor-elect.

"Thank you," Murkowski said. "You've set a grand example, you've run a great campaign."

"From the show of support and enthusiasm from all Alaskans, it's evident that our message of growing the state is the right one, and that Alaskans want to see change," Murkowski told reporters.

Murkowski said he hasn't thought about who he will appoint to his Senate seat he will be vacating. "The question comes up and I haven't even addressed it," he said.

Aides said Murkowski plans to return to Washington for the lame duck session that begins Monday, but it's unclear exactly when he'll make the trip back.

Murkowski said the election has presented Republicans with an "extraordinary opportunity" to achieve change and progress, With Murkowski as governor, Republican majorities in the state House and Senate, a Republican congressional delegation and President George W. Bush in the White House, "we haven't got any excuses," he said. "That's what's so exciting."

Murkowski said he will remain in Anchorage this week and plans to name a transition team. He doesn't expect to name any cabinet members this week.

He said he wants to review the functions of all state departments and the budget in detail, with an eye to making government more efficient.

Murkowski has said in the past he wants to cut state spending. When asked Tuesday night if he is going to hold the line on this year's budget, he said, "Not necessarily."

"Our bottom line is pretty specific," he said. "We're not going in there with the intention of raising taxes."

To see the latest numbers from the state Division of Elections, click here.