Thomas Roberts -- Bush 43 Alum
Why he supports Harris-Walz in 2024
I was born into a farming family in rural Washington State, which instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of hard work, community values, and individual freedom. Professionally, I believe that my Republican bonafides are unimpeachable (unlike the current Republican nominee). I'm a conservative American who's proud to have served various Republican causes over the years, including President George W. Bush's re-election campaign and administration, leadership roles in the Republican National Committee, and several Republican US Senate campaigns. I've stood by my conservative principles, working against left-wing opponents and causes. I didn't always agree with every single position of my candidates or clients, but I have tried to only support candidates who would put country over self or party, and work with fellow professionals who I thought had shared values.
Since watching Trump ride down that escalator in 2015, I have become estranged from a lot of friends, colleagues, and family members. I’m sure you experienced the same. I proudly consider myself to be one of the original Never Trumpers and, despite the personal toll, I have no regrets.
Yes, Trump's record is clear: he attempted to overthrow the results of a legitimate election, is now a convicted felon facing additional charges, and repeatedly abused his power for personal gain. The threat he presents goes beyond just his own actions – it's like trying to hold back a tsunami with a broken lifeguard tower. His campaign team helped draft Project 2025, a manifesto that would roll back environmental protections, restrict reproductive health services, infringe on personal privacy, cut healthcare programs, and grant tax breaks to billionaires. And that's just scratching the surface.
He has also stated, repeatedly, that he will use the United States military against "enemies within" -- referring to American citizens like you and me who might dare to disagree with him. It is almost impossible to comprehend such a thing, or how to explain to my own family that we might be at risk of persecution if he wins, but these are the stakes in 2024.
We must vote for the kind of country we want to live in – ideally one where freedom, justice, and equality are cherished values, not just ideals for the privileged few. As a conservative who's come to realize that our shared values should transcend party lines, I'm proud to endorse Kamala Harris for President. Vice President Harris has shown herself to be a leader of integrity and compassion, with a strong track record of fighting for justice and equality. We may disagree on some issues, but that's okay – disagreement has been the norm in this country since the Constitution was drafted and ratified. If you care about standing by our international allies against violence and oppression, protecting reproductive rights, providing affordable healthcare, and ensuring all Americans have the best possible chance for success, then it's time to take a stand and back Vice President Harris.
So, let's put aside party loyalty and focus on what matters most: defending our democracy and protecting our shared values. Squabbles over minor policies can wait until next year. Let’s join together as Americans to demand better from our leaders and ourselves. Thank you.
Thomas Roberts worked on the Bush-Cheney 2004 race, and was Special Assistant at the USDA under President George W. Bush.