Alberto Gonzales, Bush’s Attorney General, Backs Kamala Harris

In a surprising turn of events, former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales has announced his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for the upcoming presidential election. In an opinion piece published in Politico Magazine, Gonzales articulated his concerns regarding what he perceives as a significant threat posed by Donald Trump to the rule of law in the United States.

Gonzales described Trump as “perhaps the most serious threat to the rule of law in a generation,” emphasizing the urgency of the current political climate. He stated, “As the United States approaches a critical election, I can’t sit quietly as Donald Trump — perhaps the most serious threat to the rule of law in a generation — eyes a return to the White House.” This heartfelt endorsement underlines Gonzales’s commitment to supporting Harris despite his Republican affiliation.

Drawing on his experience serving as the attorney general during George W. Bush’s presidency, Gonzales expressed his belief that Harris possesses the qualities necessary to unite the nation while adhering to the rule of law. He highlighted her recent performances at the Democratic National Convention and during the debates as evidence of her readiness for the presidency.

The former attorney general, who faced controversy and ultimately resigned in 2007 following accusations of misleading Congress and a scandal involving the firing of U.S. attorneys, stressed the importance of character in leadership. He pointed out that Congress has often faltered in checking the executive branch’s abuse of power, making the character of the next president all the more critical.

While Rossi acknowledged that the Supreme Court can check presidential authority, he referenced a recent ruling concerning presidential immunity. He noted that this ruling might permit a president to act for personal gain, thereby raising concerns about accountability in office.

Gonzales further observed, “Power is intoxicating,” expressing skepticism about Trump’s ability to uphold presidential duties impartially. Gonzales opined that Trump’s rhetoric and past behavior suggest a tendency to misuse presidential power for personal or political advantage rather than serving the American public.

He pointed to the January 6th attack on the Capitol as a defining moment that encapsulated Trump’s failures. Gonzales mentioned the numerous legal troubles Trump currently faces, arguing that they highlight a persistent disregard for the rule of law and raise questions about his integrity and fitness to hold the presidency.

In contrast, Gonzales reflected positively on Harris’s record as a prosecutor and California’s attorney general, stating that she has demonstrated a clear commitment to justice and accountability. He acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding her potential governance but indicated that trusting her character and judgment is essential for voters.

This endorsement from Gonzales comes amidst a growing trend of bipartisan support for Harris, with other notable Republican figures such as former Vice President Dick Cheney and former Representative Liz Cheney also voicing their support. As the election approaches, Gonzales’s endorsement could have a significant impact on the landscape of the forthcoming presidential race.