‘Republicans for Harris’ Mobilizes GOP to Champion Democratic Campaign

WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign unveiled a “Republicans for Harris” initiative this past weekend, aiming to attract moderate GOP voters and those opposed to former President Donald Trump’s reelection bid.

Described as a “campaign within a campaign” by the Harris team, the initiative will see influential Republicans targeting moderates, independents, and previous supporters of former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. Notably, Haley initially took a stance against Trump but has since aligned with him.

This new GOP outreach will launch on Monday with events in key battleground states, including Arizona, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.

Austin Weatherford, Harris’ National Director of Republican Outreach, emphasized in a statement that Trump’s association with the extreme-right Project 2025 alienates many Republicans who feel disillusioned by his leadership. Weatherford, formerly chief of staff to Trump critic GOP U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger, underscored Harris’s commitment to winning over Republicans dedicated to democracy and decency.

Following President Joe Biden’s campaign suspension in late July, Harris has swiftly united diverse groups under her banner, from “White Dudes for Harris” to “Young Republicans for Harris,” led by Reed Howard. She has also secured endorsements from major unions like the hospitality union UNITE HERE and the National Association of Social Workers. The “Republicans for Harris” initiative will be supported by a digital campaign featuring testimonials from Republican supporters.

Former New Jersey Republican Gov. Christine Todd Whitman voiced her support, stating, “I was a proud Republican, but Donald Trump is unfit to lead our nation. ‘Republicans for Harris’ will be crucial in conveying this message to the electorate.”

In North Carolina, former state Supreme Court Justice Bob Orr will spearhead the “Republicans for Harris” efforts, emphasizing the urgent need for unity among Republicans, former Republicans, and unaffiliated voters to prioritize the country’s future over party loyalty and stop Trump’s potential return to office.

The initiative boasts endorsements from former GOP members of Congress, such as Adam Kinzinger, Rod Chandler, Tom Coleman, Dave Emery, Wayne Gilchrest, Jim Greenwood, John LeBoutillier, Susan Molinari, Jack Quinn, Denver Riggleman, Claudine Schneider, Christopher Shays, Peter Smith, Alan Steelman, David Trott, and Joe Walsh. Additionally, former Trump officials, including Stephanie Grisham and Olivia Troye, have also lent their support.

Grisham acknowledged differences with Harris but praised her commitment to freedom, democracy, and representing America with dignity. She urged other former Trump administration officials to back Harris to preserve the integrity of the White House and ensure democracy.

The coalition also includes former governors such as Jim Edgar of Illinois, Bill Weld of Massachusetts, and former Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan of Georgia. Meanwhile, Trump attacked prominent Georgia Republicans, including Gov. Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, during a recent rally. Despite resisting Trump’s pressure to overturn the 2020 election results, neither man has endorsed Harris.