Liz Cheney, the former Republican congresswoman from Wyoming, has been one of the most outspoken critics of former President Donald Trump and his allies in the GOP. She has repeatedly denounced Trump’s false claims of election fraud, his role in inciting the January 6th Capitol riot, and his ongoing influence over the Republican Party. She has also called out House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and other House Republicans for enabling Trump and promoting extremism within their ranks.
Cheney was ousted from her leadership position as the House Republican Conference Chair in May 2021, after she refused to back down from her stance against Trump. She was replaced by Rep. Elise Stefanik, a staunch Trump loyalist. Cheney then joined the House select committee investigating the January 6th attack, along with Rep. Adam Kinzinger, another anti-Trump Republican. The two have faced backlash and threats from their own party for participating in the probe.
Cheney has not ruled out running for president in 2024, saying that she would do whatever it takes to prevent Trump from returning to the White House. She has called Trump the “single most dangerous threat” to the nation and democracy. She has also expressed concern about the future of the GOP, saying that it needs to reject the “cult of personality” around Trump and embrace conservative principles.
Cheney has also been vocal about the recent turmoil in the House over the speakership. She has criticized McCarthy for “elevating” members who are “white supremacists” and “antisemitic”, such as Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Paul Gosar. She has also decried the intimidation and violence that some Republicans have faced for not supporting Trump’s preferred candidate for speaker, Rep. Jim Jordan.
Cheney’s defiance against Trump and his allies has earned her praise from some Democrats and independents, who see her as a principled and courageous leader. However, it has also alienated her from many Republicans, who view her as a traitor and a RINO (Republican In Name Only). She faces a tough reelection bid in 2024, as she will likely face a primary challenge from a pro-Trump opponent.
Cheney’s political future may be uncertain, but her legacy as a dissenting voice in a polarized era is undeniable. She has shown that she is willing to stand up for what she believes in, even if it means going against her own party and president. She has also shown that she is not afraid to speak truth to power, even if it means risking her career and safety. She has proven herself to be a formidable force in American politics, one that cannot be easily ignored or silenced.