Republican Mayor of Mesa Breaks Ranks at Democratic National Convention—Here’s His Message

PHOENIX — In a surprising turn, Mesa Mayor John Giles, a lifelong Republican, delivered a compelling speech at the Democratic National Convention, showcasing a notable shift within Arizona’s political landscape.

Giles, alongside a group of fellow Republicans, voiced their endorsement for Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, breaking from traditional party lines. His rationale was direct: “They’re not Donald Trump,” he stated during a recent Republicans for Harris event.

At the DNC, Giles articulated his discomfort within the current Republican party, expressing a greater sense of belonging among Democrats. “The Grand Old Party has been kidnapped by extremists and devolved into a cult: The cult of Donald Trump,” Giles declared, reflecting the frustrations many moderates feel about the party’s transformation.

He invoked the late John McCain, his political hero, to emphasize a commitment to patriotism over partisanship. “John McCain’s Republican party is gone,” Giles asserted, declaring that the remnants do not warrant loyalty. His statements resonated with those grappling with similar disillusionment.

Furthermore, Giles credited President Biden and Vice President Harris for the economic revitalization in Mesa, highlighting a surge in local developments. “I’m going to ribbon cuttings every single week… thanks to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris,” he said, showcasing the tangible benefits of bipartisan cooperation in his community.

Giles’s speech not only captures the shifting dynamics within Arizona’s political affiliations but also illustrates a broader national conversation. His endorsement signals a potential realignment for Republicans disenchanted with Trumpism and seeking new pathways in the political discourse.