In a remarkable move, 111 former Republican officials, including those with extensive backgrounds in national security and foreign affairs from GOP administrations, have publicly thrown their support behind Vice President Kamala Harris for President over the GOP nominee, Donald Trump. This endorsement was laid out in an open letter to the American public, highlighting a preference for Harris's capabilities and character to lead the nation.
Despite acknowledging policy differences with Harris, these former officials argue that her qualifications far surpass those of Donald Trump. The letter praises Harris's commitment to military support, her bipartisan approach to border security legislation thwarted by Trump for political gain, her steadfastness with NATO allies against adversarial forces like Russia, her stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, and her pledge to include a Republican in her cabinet if victorious. This group of signatories firmly denounces Trump’s presidency as one marred by chaos, dishonor towards allies and veterans alike, self-interest over national well-being, and actions that betrayed the fundamental principles of American democracy.
The former officials' critique extends to Trump's handling of foreign relations, particularly his vulnerability to influence by authoritarian figures such as Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. They express grave concerns over Trump’s disregard for ethical standards and lawful conduct. Additionally, they condemn his response to the Capitol attack on January 6th as a violation of his oath of office and a direct threat to U.S. democracy.
Concluding their message with a stark warning based on the oath taken by U.S. Senators—to defend the Constitution against all threats—these ex-officials declare Donald Trump untrustworthy of any public office role. Conversely, they affirm their belief in Kamala Harris's ability to uphold constitutional values and call upon Americans to support her candidacy.
Notable among the signers are high-profile figures such as Chuck Hagel and William S. Cohen, both former defense secretaries; Robert B. Zoellick from the World Bank; ex-CIA directors Michael V. Hayden and William H. Webster; John D. Negroponte, a previous director of national intelligence; along with former Governor William F. Weld of Massachusetts. Miles Taylor and Olivia Troye also endorsed Harris after previously criticizing Trump during his tenure.
This unprecedented endorsement not only signifies dissatisfaction within Republican ranks but showcases a willingness among traditionally conservative voices to cross party lines in favor of perceived stability and integrity at the helm of American leadership.
Despite acknowledging policy differences with Harris, these former officials argue that her qualifications far surpass those of Donald Trump. The letter praises Harris's commitment to military support, her bipartisan approach to border security legislation thwarted by Trump for political gain, her steadfastness with NATO allies against adversarial forces like Russia, her stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, and her pledge to include a Republican in her cabinet if victorious. This group of signatories firmly denounces Trump’s presidency as one marred by chaos, dishonor towards allies and veterans alike, self-interest over national well-being, and actions that betrayed the fundamental principles of American democracy.
The former officials' critique extends to Trump's handling of foreign relations, particularly his vulnerability to influence by authoritarian figures such as Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. They express grave concerns over Trump’s disregard for ethical standards and lawful conduct. Additionally, they condemn his response to the Capitol attack on January 6th as a violation of his oath of office and a direct threat to U.S. democracy.
Concluding their message with a stark warning based on the oath taken by U.S. Senators—to defend the Constitution against all threats—these ex-officials declare Donald Trump untrustworthy of any public office role. Conversely, they affirm their belief in Kamala Harris's ability to uphold constitutional values and call upon Americans to support her candidacy.
Notable among the signers are high-profile figures such as Chuck Hagel and William S. Cohen, both former defense secretaries; Robert B. Zoellick from the World Bank; ex-CIA directors Michael V. Hayden and William H. Webster; John D. Negroponte, a previous director of national intelligence; along with former Governor William F. Weld of Massachusetts. Miles Taylor and Olivia Troye also endorsed Harris after previously criticizing Trump during his tenure.
This unprecedented endorsement not only signifies dissatisfaction within Republican ranks but showcases a willingness among traditionally conservative voices to cross party lines in favor of perceived stability and integrity at the helm of American leadership.
