Kamala Harris, Pittsburgh, September 7, 2024. REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz

Kamala Harris Welcomes Endorsements from Dick and Liz Cheney

Former Republican Leaders Support Harris

Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris expressed her gratitude on Saturday for the endorsements from Republican former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter, Liz Cheney, a former U.S. Representative. Harris described their support as “courageous,” highlighting their decision to prioritize the country’s well-being over political party loyalty.

“I’m honored to have their endorsement,” Harris said during a visit to Penzeys Spices in Pittsburgh’s Strip District, where she took a break from debate preparation to meet with patrons. She praised the Cheneys for their willingness to make a statement that it is “okay, if not important, to put the country above party.”

Cheney’s Criticism of Donald Trump

Dick Cheney, who served as vice president under Republican President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, issued a strong rebuke of Donald Trump on Friday. He stated, “In our nation’s 248-year history, there has never been an individual who is a greater threat to our republic than Donald Trump.” His daughter, Liz Cheney, echoed these sentiments earlier in the week, declaring that she would vote for Harris in the upcoming election and labeling Trump a “danger” to the country.

Trump’s Response

In response, Trump dismissed the endorsements, referring to both Dick and Liz Cheney as “irrelevant RINOs” in a social media post on Friday. The term “RINO,” or “Republicans in Name Only,” is often used by Trump to describe members of his party who are not aligned with his policies or leadership.

Harris Prepares for Debate

Harris is currently preparing for a critical debate against her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, scheduled for September 10. With the race for the presidency intensifying ahead of the November 5 vote, Harris’s campaign is focused on gaining momentum in what has become a closely contested election.