Tulsi Gabbard, ex-Democrat, endorses Trump for 2024 presidential race

On August 26, former Democratic Representative Tulsi Gabbard from Hawaii made headlines by endorsing former President Donald Trump during a campaign event aimed at veterans in Michigan. Gabbard, who has experience as an Iraq War veteran, emphasized Trump’s grasp of the profound responsibilities that come with the presidency and the role of commander in chief.

During her speech at the National Guard Association of Michigan, Gabbard expressed concern over the escalating global tensions, stating, “This administration has us facing multiple wars on multiple fronts and closer to the brink of nuclear war than we have ever been before.” She urged the audience to support Trump’s return to the White House, believing he would be instrumental in addressing these issues.

In a post on X, Gabbard shared, “I was a Democrat for over 20 years. Today, I endorsed Donald Trump for president.” Her message indicated a significant political shift, aligning herself with the Republican nominee.

Throughout her address, Gabbard reflected on her experience in Iraq, articulating the heavy toll ongoing conflicts place on the nation and how Trump could help bring about an end to such strife. “I am confident that his first task will be to do the work to walk us back from the brink of war,” she asserted.

Gabbard stressed the importance of peace for prosperity, saying, “We cannot be prosperous unless we are at peace. We can’t live free as long as we have a government that is retaliating against its political opponents and undermining our civil liberties.” She took a direct shot at Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing her of contributing to a climate of political retaliation during her time in office.

“President Trump has been their first and foremost target in this because they don’t want us as voters to even have the option to vote for him,” Gabbard claimed. She pointed out that she had recently been placed on a secret domestic terror watch list, allegedly due to her outspoken criticism of Harris and the potential dangers of her presidency.

Gabbard called on Americans to reject the culture of political retaliation and the misuse of power, adding, “We can’t allow our country to be destroyed by politicians who will put their own power ahead of the interests of the American people, our freedom and our future.” Her message resonated with those who cherish the values of peace and freedom.

“I am proud to stand here before you today, whether you’re a Democrat, a Republican, or an independent,” Gabbard stated, extending an invitation to all who love the country. “If you cherish peace and freedom, I urge you to join me in doing everything we can to save our country and elect President Donald J. Trump,” she concluded.

This endorsement follows closely on the heels of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ending his independent presidential campaign to support Trump. Kennedy announced he would remove his name from the ballot in battleground states, expressing his endorsement at a rally in Arizona.

Gabbard, a former presidential candidate in 2020, made waves in 2022 when she left the Democratic Party. She cited an inability to remain in a party she claimed was dominated by an “elitist cabal of warmongers” who exacerbate divisions by racializing issues.

In addition to her endorsement, Gabbard has been invited to collaborate with Trump in preparation for his upcoming debate with Harris, scheduled for September 10. This opportunity marks her continuing involvement in the political arena as she aligns with Trump’s campaign.