Former President George W. Bush has made it clear that he does not plan to endorse a candidate for president. His office confirmed this decision when asked if he or his wife, Laura, would publicly endorse a candidate or reveal their choice in the upcoming election. The response was a resounding “no” from Bush’s office, stating that “President Bush retired from presidential politics years ago.”
In stark contrast, Bush’s former vice president, Dick Cheney, announced his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris in the November election, making a strong statement against current President Donald Trump. Cheney expressed his belief that Trump poses a significant threat to the nation’s democracy, emphasizing that he can never be trusted with power again.
Family Support for Harris
Following Cheney’s endorsement, his daughter, former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, also pledged her support for Harris. Both Cheneys, as Republicans, have been vocal critics of Trump, with Liz Cheney being particularly outspoken. Harris expressed her gratitude for their endorsements, highlighting the unity in love for the country that they share.
It is noteworthy that Bush’s decision to not endorse a candidate is a departure from his past actions. In 2012, Bush endorsed Mitt Romney, the Republican candidate, against former President Barack Obama. Four years earlier, he backed the late Sen. John McCain for president in 2008. However, in 2016, both Bush presidents opted to refrain from commenting on Trump’s candidacy, with the younger Bush focusing on supporting Republican senators instead.
Republican Support for Harris
Despite their policy differences, several prominent moderate Republicans and former Trump administration officials have chosen to endorse Harris over Trump. The Harris campaign has garnered over two dozen endorsements from Republicans, including former Gov. Bill Weld, former Rep. Denver Riggleman, and former Trump administration press secretary Stephanie Grisham. Additionally, more than 200 former staffers for both Bush presidents, McCain, and Romney have signed a letter endorsing Harris for president.
George W. Bush’s decision to not endorse a presidential candidate reflects the current division within the Republican party. While some prominent figures like Cheney and his daughter have thrown their support behind Harris, others such as Bush have chosen to remain neutral. The upcoming election will undoubtedly be a crucial moment for the Republican party as they navigate the complexities of supporting or opposing the incumbent president.
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