Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, who served under President George W. Bush, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday, citing concerns over former President Donald Trump’s disregard for the rule of law.
In a Politico op-ed, Gonzales argued that Trump’s legal troubles, including convictions and pending criminal charges, make him “the most serious threat to the rule of law in a generation.”
Gonzales emphasized the importance of character in the upcoming election, especially in light of a recent Supreme Court decision granting presidents immunity from prosecution for official acts. He expressed alarm that Trump’s history suggests he would exploit this ruling for personal gain, stating, “Trump’s actions show a clear pattern of prioritizing personal interests over the public good.”
He also criticized Trump’s national security team for their reluctance to support his re-election bid, viewing it as a reflection of Trump’s poor character and leadership. Gonzales referenced Trump’s inaction during the January 6 riots, calling it a glaring example of his failure to uphold his responsibilities as president.
While Gonzales acknowledged that Harris’s role as vice president has limited policymaking influence, he praised her integrity and commitment to the rule of law. He urged voters to trust Harris’s leadership and judgment, contrasting her with Trump, whose behavior, he warned, could lead to further damage to democratic institutions and national unity.
Gonzales concluded by cautioning that Trump’s return to power would likely prioritize his personal interests, undermining the country’s global standing and increasing national instability.