
Cheney, who represented Wyoming in the House, announced her decision during a speaking engagement at Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy.
In a video of her remarks posted to X (formerly Twitter), Cheney explained her choice: “Because of the danger that Donald Trump poses, not only am I not voting for Donald Trump, but I will be voting for Kamala Harris.” The university also provided a clip of her speech to NBC News.
Cheney emphasized that voters, particularly in swing states, cannot afford to cast symbolic votes or write in names, calling it “crucially important” to rally behind a candidate capable of defeating Trump.
The Harris campaign quickly welcomed Cheney’s endorsement. Jen O’Malley Dillon, Harris’ campaign chair, praised Cheney as a “patriot” who prioritizes the Constitution and democracy. “Vice President Harris will be a president for all Americans, regardless of political party,” Dillon said. “For any American rejecting the chaos and division of Donald Trump, there is a place for you in the Harris-Walz coalition.”
Cheney, a former Republican leader in Congress, lost her leadership role after openly criticizing Trump and his role in the January 6 Capitol riots. She has been a vocal opponent of Trump’s return to office, warning that he would seek to undermine democratic processes. In a recent interview on NBC’s TODAY show, Cheney reiterated her commitment to blocking Trump’s re-election, saying, “I will do whatever it takes to make sure that Donald Trump is defeated in 2024.”