In a surprising turn of events during the 2024 presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris has announced a series of moderated conversations with former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney in three key battleground states. The conversations, which aim to address issues related to democracy, national security, and the rule of law, mark a unique partnership between two political figures who, despite their ideological differences, share a commitment to defending democratic institutions and norms. These events signal a broader strategy by the Harris campaign to reach moderate and independent voters while focusing on critical issues facing the country.
The Harris-Cheney conversations represent an unusual alliance in today’s polarized political climate. Harris, a progressive Democrat, and Cheney, a conservative Republican, have found common ground on issues related to the preservation of democratic values and the rule of law especially in the context of the January 6th Capitol attack and the broader threats to democracy posed by authoritarianism. Cheney, who served as vice chair of the House Select Committee investigating the January 6th insurrection, became a leading voice in the Republican Party for holding those responsible accountable, including former President Donald Trump, whom she has consistently criticized.
For Harris, the partnership with Cheney allows her to appeal to voters beyond the traditional Democratic base, particularly independents and disaffected Republicans who are wary of Trump’s continued influence on the GOP. By engaging in conversations with Cheney, Harris can emphasize the importance of bipartisanship when it comes to safeguarding democracy and the Constitution issues that transcend party lines.
Cheney’s involvement brings credibility with centrist and conservative voters who respect her willingness to stand up to Trump, even at great personal and political cost. After losing her Wyoming primary to a Trump-endorsed candidate in 2022, Cheney has emerged as a leading figure in the anti-Trump wing of the Republican Party, which aligns with Harris’s efforts to counter Trump’s influence in the 2024 race.
The conversations between Harris and Cheney are set to take place in three battleground states Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin each of which played a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the 2020 election and are expected to do so again in 2024. These states represent a cross-section of the American electorate, with diverse populations and varying political dynamics.
In Arizona, where election integrity has been a heated topic since 2020, the discussion is likely to focus on the importance of upholding the electoral process and combating disinformation. Pennsylvania, a state that has seen intense debates over voting rights and election laws, provides an opportunity to emphasize the need for fair access to the ballot. In Wisconsin, with its mix of urban and rural voters, the conversation could touch on the challenges of bridging political divides and ensuring that democracy works for all citizens.
These states are not only crucial for Harris’s path to the White House but are also home to voters who are increasingly concerned about the future of democratic governance. By bringing Cheney into the fold, Harris is making a direct appeal to voters who may be dissatisfied with the extremism in both parties and are looking for a message of stability and constitutional adherence.
The moderated conversations will likely focus on several key themes: the defense of democracy, the protection of national security, and the rule of law. Both Harris and Cheney have been vocal critics of the January 6th insurrection, with Cheney playing a leading role in holding Trump accountable for his role in inciting the attack on the Capitol. Harris, as vice president, has repeatedly emphasized the importance of upholding democratic institutions in the face of growing authoritarian tendencies.
National security will also be a central issue, with Cheney’s expertise in foreign policy and defense matters adding weight to discussions about America’s role on the global stage. Given rising concerns about election interference from foreign actors and the broader geopolitical challenges posed by authoritarian regimes like Russia and China, both Harris and Cheney are well-positioned to address these threats and present a united front on the importance of American leadership.
The Harris-Cheney conversations in battleground states signal a concerted effort to appeal to a wide swath of voters who are concerned about the direction of American democracy. By joining forces with Cheney, Harris is attempting to transcend partisan divisions and build a coalition of voters committed to upholding democratic values. As the 2024 election draws closer, these discussions will provide a platform for both leaders to advocate for the rule of law and the protection of American institutions in a time of deep political uncertainty.