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Former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY) is actively collaborating with Vice President Kamala Harris as the pivotal Election Day on November 5 draws near, which has elicited strong reactions from various political figures, notably former President Donald Trump. This alliance highlights Cheney’s commitment to democratic values and her willingness to stand against controversial figures within her party, making her a significant player on the political landscape. Her actions are not only about the immediate elections but also about the future direction of the Republican Party and its relationship with the core principles of democracy.

On Thursday, former President Trump launched a scathing attack on Cheney, labeling her a “radical war hawk.” He provocatively suggested, “Let’s put her with a rifle standing there with nine barrels shooting at her, OK? Let’s see how she feels about it. You know, when the guns are trained on her face.” Such incendiary rhetoric raises serious concerns about the state of political discourse in America, reflecting a troubling trend where personal attacks overshadow substantive debates on policy and governance. Trump’s comments seem to reflect the heightened tensions within the GOP and the divisive climate in contemporary politics.

In the wake of Trump’s comments, Cheney, along with numerous other leaders, swiftly condemned his remarks, asserting that they echoed the rhetoric of a dictator. Cheney stated, “This is how dictators destroy free nations. They threaten those who speak against them with death.” Her strong response underscores the gravity of the situation and highlights her dedication to protecting democratic principles. Cheney’s willingness to confront Trump’s aggressive tactics not only reinforces her position as a principled leader but also serves as a rallying call for others within the political sphere to resist similar authoritarian tendencies.

Discover more about Cheney, a political figure who has consistently sounded the alarm on the dangers posed by Trump and his influence over the Republican Party. Her courage to stand up against the former president is not just about political rivalry; it’s a matter of principle and moral responsibility. Cheney’s actions and statements provide insight into her vision for a more accountable and democratic future, and her efforts are critical in shaping the narrative surrounding the GOP’s identity moving forward.

1. Liz Cheney’s Leadership Role as Chair of the House Republican Conference

Cheney served as the Chair of the House Republican Conference, holding the third-highest leadership position within the Republican Party in the House of Representatives since 2019. However, as she began to openly criticize former President Donald Trump for perpetuating the “Big Lie” regarding election fraud and his involvement in the January 6 Capitol insurrection, questions arose about her “competency” as a leader. After her vote with Democrats to impeach Trump in January 2021, a faction of pro-Trump Republicans, including Minority Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), called for her ousting. On May 12, 2021, a House committee voted behind closed doors to remove Cheney from her leadership position, marking a significant shift in the dynamics within the GOP.

2. Cheney’s Cautionary Message to Colleagues in Her Final Speech

During the closed-door meeting that ultimately resulted in her ouster from House leadership, Cheney delivered a powerful warning to her fellow Republicans. Sources revealed to ABC News that Cheney cautioned her colleagues against allowing Trump to make the GOP “complicit in his efforts to unravel our democracy.” She emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity and principles of the Republican Party, urging her peers to resist the former president’s divisive agenda.

Cheney articulated her vision for the future, stating, “Our nation needs this Republican Party as a strong party based on truth so we can shape the future. To do that, we must be true to our principles and to the Constitution.” She continued by warning, “We cannot let the former president drag us backward and make us complicit in his efforts to unravel our democracy. Down that path lies our destruction, and potentially the destruction of our country.” Her remarks served as a stark reminder of the stakes involved and the need for principled leadership within the GOP.

“We cannot be dragged backward by the very dangerous lies of a former president.”

Rep. Liz Cheney delivered remarks shortly after being ousted from House GOP leadership amid criticism of former Pres. Trump. https://t.co/alrE7kblYd pic.twitter.com/7L2QP7npYU

— ABC News (@ABC) May 13, 2021

3. Cheney’s Historic Endorsement of Kamala Harris for President in 2024

In a groundbreaking move, Cheney publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in September 2024, positioning herself as one of the most prominent Republicans to support a Democratic candidate in a national election. This endorsement underscores the gravity of the political landscape and the growing divide within the GOP. Cheney stated, “Because of the danger that Donald Trump poses, not only am I not voting for Donald Trump, but I will be voting for Kamala Harris,” in a video shared on X, highlighting her commitment to democratic values over party loyalty.

Following her endorsement, Harris’ campaign chair, Jen O’Malley Dillon, praised Cheney, declaring, “The Vice President is proud to have earned Congresswoman Cheney’s vote. She is a patriot who loves this country and puts our democracy and our Constitution first.” This statement reflects the mutual respect and shared values between Cheney and Harris, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan efforts in safeguarding American democracy.

Liz Cheney: “If you really believe, as I do, that Donald Trump is too dangerous ever again to be near the Oval Office, then I think that it’s incumbent upon us to go the extra step and actually cast a vote for Vice President Harris.” pic.twitter.com/XhnSFx1Iy0

— Republican Voters Against Trump (@AccountableGOP) September 23, 2024

4. Liz Cheney: The Legacy of Former Vice President Dick Cheney

Liz Cheney is the eldest daughter of Dick Cheney, who served as Vice President under former President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009. Interestingly, Cheney occupies the same congressional seat in Wyoming that her father represented from 1979 to 1989. This familial legacy adds a unique dimension to her political identity, as she navigates the complexities of modern Republican politics while being rooted in a prominent political lineage. Her father’s influence is palpable, yet she has carved her own path, often taking stands that diverge from traditional party lines.

5. Liz Cheney’s Consideration for a Third-Party Presidential Run

As one of Donald Trump’s most vocal critics within an increasingly fragmented GOP, political analysts viewed Liz Cheney as a potential leader for a new political movement. In her final speech before her ouster on May 12, 2021, she declared, “I promise you this, after today, I will be leading the fight to restore our party and our nation to conservative principles, to defeating socialism, to defending our republic, to making the GOP worthy again of being the party of Lincoln.” Her passionate commitment to traditional Republican values resonated with those seeking a return to core principles amidst rising extremism.

However, by the end of 2023, Cheney clarified her stance regarding a potential presidential campaign, stating that her priority was to ensure that Trump does not return to the White House. “I won’t do anything that would help him,” she stated during an interview on CBS Mornings. Cheney emphasized the importance of nonpartisanship and supporting “pro-Constitution candidates, no matter their party,” highlighting her commitment to the integrity of American democracy over personal political ambitions.