In a surprising move, three prominent Republican figures from Kansas have thrown their support behind Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming presidential election. Former U.S. Senator Nancy Kassebaum, along with former state senator and insurance commissioner Sandy Praeger and retired federal judge Deanell Reece Tacha, released a statement condemning the current state of the Republican Party and endorsing Harris.
They argue that the Republican Party of Eisenhower, Dole, and other notable Kansas leaders is no longer recognizable within the current party. This stark difference, they claim, necessitates Republicans prioritizing country over party when fundamental values are at stake. While acknowledging no candidate is perfect, they firmly believe Harris aligns more closely with their vision for the future and the aspirations of Kansans.
This endorsement comes amidst a broader effort by the Harris campaign to court Republican voters, aiming to present a stark contrast between her and Trump. While Trump still enjoys significant support among Republicans, particularly those in elected office, Harris has managed to garner support from several notable figures within the GOP, including former Rep. Liz Cheney, former Vice President Dick Cheney, and former Trump administration aides Stephanie Grisham and Olivia Troye.
The Harris campaign emphasizes her unifying message of freedom, democracy, and opportunity as a key factor in attracting support from across the political spectrum. They see this endorsement as a sign of growing support for Harris among anti-Trump Republicans, moderates, and independents.
The Trump campaign dismissed the endorsement, dismissing the individuals as unknown and irrelevant. However, this public declaration of support from three well-respected Kansas Republicans adds another layer to the evolving political landscape of the upcoming election, demonstrating a growing sentiment among some Republicans for a change in leadership.
