Sen. Murkowski mounting write-in bid for Senate

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) -- U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski says she'll mount a write-in campaign in Alaska in an effort to hold onto her seat after last month's stunning Republican primary loss to Joe Miller.

Murkowski made her announcement Friday evening at a rally in Anchorage while surrounded by supporters chanting: "Run, Lisa, Run!"

Murkowski had gone back and forth on whether to re-enter the race since conceding the GOP primary to Miller on Aug. 31. She has said she entertained the possibility of a write-in campaign only after receiving an outpouring of encouragement from Alaskans.

During the primary campaign, the tea party-supported Miller cast Murkowski as part of the problem in an out-of-control Washington.