Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, a prominent Republican figure often referred to as “Darth Vader” by Democrats, has announced his support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the upcoming presidential election. Cheney, who served with President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, stated he will not vote for former Republican President Donald Trump in 2024, citing Trump as a significant threat to the republic.
Background
In a public statement on September 7, Cheney declared, “In our nation’s 248-year history, there has never been an individual who is a greater threat to our republic than Donald Trump.” He criticised Trump for attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election results using “lies and violence” and emphasised the need to prioritise the country over partisanship to defend the Constitution. Cheney’s extensive political career includes roles as a Congressman, President Gerald Ford’s Chief of Staff, and President George H.W. Bush’s Secretary of Defense. Despite endorsing Trump in 2016, Cheney later criticised Trump’s lack of commitment to NATO in 2019.
“No individual who is a greater threat”
Cheney’s statement, reported by the New York Times, highlighted his concerns about Trump’s actions and intentions. “We have a duty to put country above partisanship to defend our Constitution. That is why I will be casting my vote for Vice President Kamala Harris,” he said. Cheney’s endorsement of Harris marks a significant departure from his previous support for Trump, reflecting his deep concerns about Trump’s impact on the nation’s democratic principles.
Former Republican campaign strategist Nicole Wallace remarked, “Hell has frozen over,” in response to Cheney’s unexpected endorsement.
Liz Cheney also voting for Harris
Cheney’s daughter, Liz Cheney, a former U.S. Congresswoman, has also endorsed Kamala Harris for president. Liz Cheney, who once held a high-ranking position as chair of the House Republican Conference, has been a vocal critic of Trump, especially after the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Over 700 people have pleaded guilty to charges related to the insurrection, but Trump has refused to accept responsibility and has condemned Liz Cheney for her opposition.
Liz Cheney lost her seat in the House of Representatives in 2022 to a Trump-backed opponent. Explaining her decision to support Harris, she stated, “As a conservative and as someone who cares and believes in the Constitution, I have thought deeply about this and because of the danger Donald Trump poses, not only am I not voting for Donald Trump, but I will be voting for Kamala Harris.”
Implications for the Republican Party
The endorsements from both Dick and Liz Cheney signal a significant rift within the Republican Party. Their decisions underscore the ongoing divisions and debates about the future direction of the party, particularly concerning Trump’s influence. As the 2024 election approaches, these endorsements may influence other Republicans who are grappling with similar concerns about Trump’s impact on the party and the nation.
The Cheney endorsements highlight a broader conversation about the principles and values that should guide the Republican Party moving forward. With the election drawing near, the party faces critical decisions about its leadership and the direction it will take in the coming years.
