Liz Cheney, former Republican, has claimed that “Republican women can vote for Kamala Harris and that they don’t have to tell anyone.”
This statement comes after a tour through swing states where Kamala Harris and Liz Cheney campaigned; it is noteworthy how Cheney has created a legitimacy mechanism for Republican women who do not support former President Donald Trump, but instead want to pledge their endorsement to Democratic candidate Harris.
Although Cheney cheered the overturning of Roe v. Wade, she also recognized that American women are no longer protected when it comes to reproductive rights and that a change of course is needed, which can only happen if Harris is elected president.
Cheney reiterated her opposition to abortion, but expressed her concerns in Waukesha County, a key district near Milwaukee, stating, “I have been deeply troubled by what I have seen happening in many states. It is alarming to see women, as the vice president said, dying in some cases because they cannot access needed medical care, while providers fear criminal repercussions.” Cheney then remarked, “We are facing a situation that I believe is unsustainable.”
In a Detroit suburb, Cheney pointed out that some Republicans fear retaliation, even violence, if they stand against Trump. “I would just like to remind people that if they are the least bit concerned, they can vote their conscience without ever having to say a word to anybody,” Cheney said. “There will be millions of Republicans who will do that on Nov. 5.”
Harris’s campaign is strongly appealing to Republican voters disillusioned by Trump’s erratic and vulgar behavior, perceived threats to the Constitution, and his close ties with authoritarian leaders.
Many of these voters, who had previously supported Nikki Haley in her unsuccessful primary race, may be willing to support Harris as long as they do not vote for Trump; in fact, even a small shift in their support could be crucial in swing states by narrow margins.
However, Harris cannot win over these voters on her own. Approaching them requires sensitivity, as they must set aside some of their core political beliefs. This is where Liz Cheney becomes an influential resource as her solid conservative positions and unwavering defense of constitutional principles give her considerable credibility among disaffected Republicans.
In a speech in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Cheney stressed the importance of loyalty to the Constitution, reminding voters of Trump’s actions since the last election and Jan. 6. “You have to choose between someone who is faithful to the Constitution and Donald Trump,” she urged.
