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Democrats have embraced an unexpected ally in their ranks: former Republican Vice President Dick Cheney, who, just two decades ago, was seen by many on the left as a symbol of conservative excess and war-mongering. Cheney’s surprising shift was marked by his recent statement condemning former President Donald Trump and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.
In a statement released Friday, 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 tried to steal the last election using lies and violence to keep himself in power after the voters had rejected him. He can never be trusted with power again. As citizens, we each 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.”
Cheney’s endorsement is particularly striking given his history. As Vice President under George W. Bush, Cheney was a staunch advocate for the Iraq War, frequently criticized former President Barack Obama, and was known for his harsh judgments of Republicans who deviated from his views, including Colin Powell. Cheney’s support for Trump in the 2016 election further solidified his position as a controversial figure among Democrats.
However, Cheney’s perspective shifted dramatically after the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, which he publicly condemned. He described Trump as a “coward” in an ad for his daughter, Liz Cheney, who has been a vocal critic of Trump’s actions and the events of January 6.
Harris’ campaign quickly acknowledged Cheney’s endorsement. Campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon praised Cheney’s decision, stating that Harris “deeply respects his courage to put country over party.”
This development highlights a unique moment in American politics, where former Republican stalwarts are making unexpected alliances with Democrats. Cheney’s shift is part of a broader pattern of prominent Republicans either backing the Democratic nominee or refraining from endorsing Trump. Other high-profile Republicans, such as former President George W. Bush and former Vice President Mike Pence, have similarly withheld support for Trump without endorsing Harris.
Cheney’s daughter, Liz Cheney, also announced her support for Harris earlier in the day, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and her commitment to holding Trump accountable.
Trump responded to Cheney’s endorsement with scorn, branding him a “Republican in Name Only” and accusing him of contributing to endless wars. Trump also called for the prosecution of Liz Cheney, underscoring the deep rift within the Republican Party.
Democrats, while somewhat surprised by Cheney’s endorsement, are navigating this complex political landscape. Representative Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) expressed a mixed sentiment, acknowledging the unusual alliance but also underscoring the importance of Cheney’s stance against Trump. “I’m not used to agreeing with one Cheney, let alone two, but I continue to respect Liz Cheney for putting country over party,” Moulton wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.