Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, a vocal opponent of abortion rights, publicly criticized the Republican Party's restrictive abortion laws on Monday. Speaking alongside Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris at joint events in key swing states, Cheney called on conservatives to support Harris in her bid for the presidency.
Cheney's remarks came during three events aimed at attracting suburban Republican voters away from the party's nominee, Donald Trump. As one of Harris's most prominent conservative supporters, Cheney is also rumored to be in consideration for a position in a potential Harris administration.
At the last event in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Cheney emphasized the troubling consequences of recent Republican-led abortion restrictions. She noted that since the Supreme Court's 2022 Dobbs decision, many states have overreached in their efforts to limit access to abortion. "I’m pro-life and I have been very troubled by what I have watched happen in so many states since Dobbs," she stated. Cheney expressed concern over the dangers women face, stating, "You have women who, as the vice president said, in some cases have died, who can’t get medical treatment because providers are worried about criminal liability."
Cheney described the current situation as "untenable" and advocated for a president who prioritizes compassion over political agendas. She argued that discussions surrounding women's healthcare should not be politicized and stressed the need for federal intervention to protect women from harmful state laws.
Cheney contrasted her views with Trump, who appointed three Supreme Court justices responsible for overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. She criticized Trump's fluctuating stance on abortion, stating, "You just can’t count on him. You cannot trust him."
During her appearances, Cheney attempted to build a bridge for conservatives to back Harris, who has made reproductive rights a central focus of her campaign. Despite her previous anti-abortion stance, Cheney's endorsement of Harris suggests a significant shift in her political alignment.
The trio of events held in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin were designed to portray Trump as a threat to democracy. These states, which have a history of supporting Republican candidates, were won by Nikki Haley in the GOP primary, complicating the party's current dynamics.
In response to concerns about Cheney's past hawkish foreign policy, particularly regarding the Iraq War, Harris emphasized the need for bipartisanship and urged a return to civil discourse. She expressed a desire to foster a healthy two-party system and promised to welcome good ideas from all sides.
Foreign policy also featured prominently in their discussions, with both Cheney and Harris labeling Trump as chaotic and unfit for leadership. Cheney pointed out Trump's admiration for authoritarian leaders, stressing that such admiration is contrary to American values.
As the campaign progresses, Cheney's alignment with Harris raises questions about potential cabinet positions should Harris win the presidency. While discussing her willingness to work with Republicans, Harris avoided confirming any specific appointments but hinted at a commitment to including diverse voices in her administration.
In a lighter moment during their tour, Cheney encouraged voters to follow their conscience and assured them they could support Harris without public acknowledgment. Meanwhile, Harris reflected on her own personal stress management and urged Americans not to feel powerless in the face of challenges.
The events showcased a growing collaboration between moderate Republicans and Democrats, signaling a potential shift in voter sentiments ahead of the election. As the election date approaches, Cheney's endorsement and the joint appearances with Harris may influence undecided voters in these critical states.
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