On Wednesday, the mayor of Waukesha, Wisconsin, Shawn Reilly, made headlines by endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for president, marking a significant political shift for the formerly Republican city leader. In his public statement, Reilly articulated his reasoning, emphasizing the critical stakes of the upcoming election and expressing his belief that former President Donald Trump represents a “unique danger to American democracy.” This endorsement is noteworthy given Reilly’s history as a Republican, having left the party after the January 6 Capitol riots and voting for President Joe Biden in 2020. He acknowledged that while he still frequently votes for Republican candidates, his conscience compelled him to support Harris publicly. The implications of his endorsement signal broader concerns among some Republican leaders about Trump’s potential return to power.
Reilly’s sentiments were echoed by Wisconsin State Senator Robert Cowles, a long-serving Republican representative, who also endorsed Harris shortly after. Cowles underscored the gravity of his decision by labeling Trump as “totalitarian” and “very much a fascist,” reflecting a deep disapproval of Trump’s approach and policies. Cowles drew historical parallels, recalling the sacrifices made by his family during World War II against totalitarian regimes, and stated that contemporary American society must summon a similar courage in opposition to Trump’s leadership. Cowles framed his support for Harris as both a personal and civic obligation during what he considers an existential threat to democracy.
The endorsements from both Republican figures highlight the shifting political landscape in Wisconsin, a crucial battleground state for elections. Historically, Waukesha County has been a Republican stronghold, but recent trends indicate a slow but evident Democratic shift. For example, the percentage of voters supporting a Democratic presidential nominee has increased from 32% in 2000 to 39% in 2020. This slow shift, although marginal, could be significant in a state that Biden won by a narrow margin of less than one point in the 2020 elections. As such, changes in voter sentiment in suburban areas like Waukesha can drastically affect statewide outcomes, making endorsements from traditional Republicans like Reilly and Cowles instrumental for Democrats.
Reilly and Cowles are not alone in their dissent against Trump; a growing number of former Republican officials are publicly backing Harris in this election cycle. The endorsements range from former Congress members such as Fred Upton, who described Harris as the first Democrat he has ever supported for president, to notable figures like Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger, both of whom have been vocal critics of Trump. Their endorsements reflect a critical stance within certain factions of the Republican party against Trump’s conduct and influence, indicating a potential rift that Harris aims to capitalize on as she prepares for the election. By garnering support from these traditionally Republican voices, Harris could strengthen her appeal to moderate voters in battleground areas.
The responses from prominent Republicans support the notion that there is an emerging coalition forming against Trump’s candidacy and, by extension, a concerted effort from some within the party to realign with more centrist and democratic values. This shift is indicative of broader trends within the GOP, especially as the party grapples with its identity in the aftermath of Trump’s presidency. The endorsements also highlight a significant generational divide within the Republican base, as older members reflect on historical struggles against authoritarianism and renew their commitment to democratic principles. This realignment has potential implications not just for the presidential race but for the broader political dynamics leading up to the elections.
Harris’s campaign is likely to leverage these endorsements to craft a narrative that resonates with voters who are disillusioned with the current political environment, especially those in historically Republican areas. Capitalizing on the fears expressed by Reilly, Cowles, and other endorsing Republicans about the risks associated with Trump’s potential return could help Harris mobilize support among undecided voters, independents, and moderate Republicans. By doing so, the campaign can enhance its strategy to appeal to a broader audience, particularly in essential battleground states that could dictate the outcome of the presidency.
Overall, the endorsements of Kamala Harris by Republican leaders in Wisconsin reflect a fascinating intersection of political attitudes as the country heads towards the 2024 presidential election. The willingness of established Republicans to break ranks and support a Democratic candidate demonstrates heightened concerns about democracy and governance under Trump. As endorsements such as those from Reilly and Cowles proliferate, they may signify a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party’s strategy and a potential shift in voter alignment that could reshape the political landscape in crucial ways. As the election approaches, the implications of these endorsements may significantly influence not only Wisconsin’s electoral votes but also the overall dynamics of the national race.