What Liz Cheney's endorsement should mean to America
Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighting the 2024 election as a referendum on democracy and decency rather than traditional policy divisions. Once known for her strong conservative stances, Cheney’s endorsement of Harris signals a rejection of Trump’s authoritarian tendencies and an urgent call to protect democratic institutions.
Cheney’s fierce criticism of Trump started after the January 6 Capitol riots, where she held him directly responsible for inciting the violence. She was one of few Republicans who voted to impeach him, saying, “There has never been a greater betrayal by a President of the United States.” Her endorsement of Harris reflects a broader concern that Trump's reelection could dismantle American democracy.
For Cheney, the election is about moral clarity opposed to party loyalty. She has repeatedly emphasized that Trump’s divisiveness, blatant disregard for the Constitution, and undermining of democratic norms pose a far greater threat to the country than disagreements over policy. “This isn’t about tax cuts or immigration reform. It’s about whether we still have a democracy,” Cheney said.
Cheney's endorsement is a direct appeal to Republicans, independents, and moderate Democrats who feel alienated by Trump’s extreme rhetoric. Cheney is not just endorsing Harris but calling on all rational Americans to reject hate and division, framing this election as a battle for the soul of the nation. “We must come together to defeat this threat,” Cheney urged, “before it’s too late.”
CNN, The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Atlantic, Politico, The Guardian, The Brookings Institution.
