During a speech at Drake University’s Knapp Center on Wednesday, Rep. Liz Cheney, a former Wyoming lawmaker who has become a staunch critic of former President Donald Trump, expressed her concern that the Republican party is currently posing a threat to democracy. She also highlighted the ongoing political transformation taking place in the nation.
The lecture, which was a part of Drake’s Bucksbaum Lecture series, was moderated by Lee Ann Colacioppo, the executive editor of the Denver Post. Colacioppo, who is a Drake graduate and has previously worked for the Des Moines Register, guided the discussion.
Cheney said the nation’s politics are undergoing a shift
After the violent events of January 6, 2021, Cheney stood among a group of ten House Republicans who made the decision to impeach Trump. The allegations against him were centered around the belief that he had incited the violence that unfolded on that fateful day.
According to Cheney, there is a significant transformation happening in the country’s politics, which she refers to as a “tectonic shift.” She highlights instances where Republican members are backing Trump’s allegations of the election being stolen as crucial proof of this change.
“It is undoubtedly concerning to witness the current state of affairs within the Republican party,” Cheney expressed with deep concern. “Regrettably, we find ourselves in a situation where one of the two major political parties has chosen to forsake the very principles outlined in our constitution.”
“We have a collective obligation to urge our elected representatives to partake in meaningful discussions and maintain a respectful tone,” emphasized Cheney. She expressed her hope that we can step away from the precipice of division and partisanship, which has become increasingly toxic in various aspects.”
The nation can’t survive a president who would ‘torch the Constitution’
Cheney issued a warning to Trump, cautioning him not to feel overly confident for the general election, despite his significant success in Republican primaries.
Liz Cheney pointed out that in several primaries, nearly 30% of Republicans openly expressed their unwillingness to vote for Donald Trump. She emphasized that although Trump emerged as the winner, this should not instill any sense of confidence for the general election.
According to the Wyoming Republican, the future of the country’s democracy relies on Trump’s loss in the upcoming November election.
In a recent statement, Cheney expressed concern about the potential actions of former President Trump if he were to be re-elected. She highlighted that he had previously attempted to stay in office and may not be inclined to ensure a peaceful transfer of power if given the opportunity again. Despite policy disagreements with the Biden administration, Cheney emphasized that the nation can withstand unfavorable policies but would struggle to endure a president who disregards the Constitution.
Former Wyoming lawmaker doubts Trump’s longevity in the party
According to Cheney, Republican officials are still supporting and justifying the actions of the former president on Jan. 6. She emphasized that their continued support of Trump gives him credibility with the voters.
Liz Cheney issues a dire warning about the potential consequences of another Donald Trump presidency, emphasizing that the United States cannot endure such a scenario.
