We’re not against all independent runs. We supported Joe Lieberman’s decision to run as an independent. Lieberman’s principled and consistent support for the Iraq War cost him the Democratic primary. But it was the right stand to take, and his refusal to be cowed by the anti-war activists in his party was laudable.

But in Murkowski’s case, there is no similar adherence to a worthwhile principle. Instead, the fact that she is willing even to consider running as a Libertarian — a party often to the economic right of the GOP — highlights that for her, this race isn’t about fighting for cherished values, but rather is about refusing to accept the primary’s results.