Lisa Murkowski still won after losing in the PRIMARY!!!
Alaskans have a long history of continued voter support for the incumbent. Murkowski is a household word up there. They would have just voted for her regardless of the ticket.
Part of the reason that Don Young and Ted Stevens had just long careers in spite of their performance.
The best way to become a long-term incumbent is to have someone, like a governor appoint you to fill a vacancy. Lisa can thank her dad.
Ted Stevens was appointed to his U.S. Senate seat and served 6 very long terms.
Don Young is in his 23rd term in the house.
By cheating.
Murkowski did not lose her primary in 2016, and she won a three way race in the general.