GOP Veterans Endorse Harris, Warn Against Trump's Second Term
Over 200 former Republican staffers back Kamala Harris for president, citing concerns about Donald Trump's potential second term. Both campaigns seek cross-party support as election nears.
In a significant political development, more than 200 former Republican staffers have publicly endorsed Kamala Harris for the presidency. This endorsement, revealed in an open letter on August 26, 2024, comes from individuals who previously worked for prominent Republican figures such as George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, John McCain, and Mitt Romney.
The letter, signed by 238 Republican veterans, appeals to moderate Republicans and conservative independents to support Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, over Donald Trump and his vice-presidential pick, JD Vance. While acknowledging ideological differences with the Democratic ticket, the signatories emphasize that a second Trump term is "simply untenable."
Among the notable signatories are Reed Galen, a co-founder of The Lincoln Project, and Olivia Troye, a former homeland security adviser to Mike Pence. The Lincoln Project, formed in late 2019, has been a vocal critic of Trump's policies and leadership style.
The letter expresses concern about Trump's potential second term, particularly regarding Project 2025, a conservative policy blueprint. It warns that "broad, democratic movements will be irreparably jeopardized" under Trump's leadership, citing concerns about his approach to foreign policy and relationships with allies.
"They would rather see the country burn down than to see President Trump successfully return to the White House to Make America Great Again"
In response, Trump's campaign dismissed the letter, questioning the relevance of the signatories. This exchange highlights the intensifying political divide as the election approaches.
Both campaigns are actively seeking cross-party endorsements. At the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago, several Republicans, including Adam Kinzinger, spoke in favor of Harris. Conversely, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard, both former Democrats, have endorsed Trump and joined his transition team.
This endorsement saga unfolds against the backdrop of a closely contested election, reminiscent of the 2020 race where battleground states played a crucial role. As the first woman, African American, and Asian American vice president, Harris represents a historic choice, while Trump seeks to regain the presidency he held from 2017 to 2021.
The political landscape continues to evolve, with both parties vying for support across traditional party lines. As Election Day draws near, the impact of these endorsements on voter decisions remains to be seen, adding another layer of complexity to an already contentious presidential race.
