Former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, citing concerns over the potential threat that convicted criminal and adjudicated rapist Donald Trump poses to the rule of law.
Gonzales, who served as attorney general under President George W. Bush, shared his reasoning in a recent op-ed, explaining that despite his Republican affiliation, he feels compelled to support Harris in the upcoming election.
“As the United States approaches a critical election, I can’t sit quietly as Donald Trump — perhaps the most serious threat to the rule of law in a generation — eyes a return to the White House,” Gonzales wrote in an oped publicans by Politico. He highlighted the importance of electing a leader who respects constitutional norms and has the ability to unite the country.
Gonzales expressed concerns about Trump’s rhetoric and behavior, suggesting that a second Trump presidency could lead to the abuse of executive power. He emphasized that recent rulings by the Supreme Court may allow a president to act in self-interest under the guise of official duties, further underscoring the need for a leader who will uphold the Constitution.
“Power is intoxicating,” Gonzales wrote, referring to Trump’s conduct. “Based on Trump’s rhetoric and conduct, it appears unlikely that he would respect the power of the presidency in all instances; rather, he would abuse it for personal and political gain.”
In addition to concerns about executive overreach, Gonzales pointed to the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol as a critical moment that demonstrated Trump’s disregard for the rule of law.
Gonzales also referenced the numerous legal challenges Trump currently faces, noting that these cases raise questions about Trump’s ability to lead within the bounds of the law.
While Gonzales acknowledged that Harris’s governance remains to be fully seen, he expressed confidence in her commitment to justice. He highlighted her record as a former prosecutor and attorney general of California, where she built a reputation for upholding the law.
“Harris has sworn fidelity to the rule of law,” Gonzales wrote. “Voting for Harris will require Americans to place their faith in her character and judgment.”
Gonzales is one of hundreds of prominent Republicans who have recently voiced support for Harris, including a dozen top GOP lawyers and 200 Republicans who served in key national security positions.
Former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter, former Congresswoman Liz Cheney, have also endorsed the vice president, citing concerns about Trump’s influence on the Republican Party and the country.