Vice President Kamala Harris has garnered an unusual endorsement from Richard Spencer, a prominent figure associated with the alt-right movement. On Friday night, Spencer publicly declared his support for Harris and the Democrats in Montana, a move that has raised eyebrows given his controversial history and political stance.
Spencer, credited with coining the term “alt-right,” made his announcement to his 93,500 followers on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “I want you all to know that I am voting for Kamala Harris and I hope you will too.” This endorsement comes as a surprise not only due to Spencer’s past remarks about women but also his prior support for Donald Trump during the 2016 election.
In a follow-up interview with Newsweek, Spencer explained his reasoning for endorsing Harris, emphasizing his desire for competent leadership. He criticized the Republican Party, describing it as the “no” party, lacking constructive policies. “There’s a total absence of policy among the GOP. It’s almost nihilistic,” he stated, contrasting it with his view of the Democrats as more capable and reasonable.
Spencer specified that he does not identify with any political party and pointed to a bipartisan border bill that Republicans rejected earlier this year as a significant example of political dysfunction. He remarked, “If you don’t want things to get better, then you’re sort of evil.”
In an almost 12-minute video posted on X, Spencer insisted that his support for Harris was sincere. He discussed what voting means to him, citing the importance of stability and effective governance. “When I put it that way, the choice is very clear,” he said, adding that the MAGA movement brings “nothing but stupidity and chaos.”
Historically, Spencer has made headlines for his divisive rhetoric, particularly following Trump’s 2016 victory, which he celebrated with the phrase, “Hail Trump, hail our people, hail victory!” However, his views have since evolved. He expressed concern about the potential consequences of a Trump administration, suggesting it would lead to the dismantling of the “American empire,” which he defines as U.S. military presence and commitments abroad.
Reflecting on Biden’s presidency, Spencer acknowledged he didn’t consider Biden “great” but believed he performed adequately, citing initiatives like the CHIPS Act and the “Build Back Better” plan. Notably, during the 2016 campaign, he had made derogatory comments regarding women’s role in foreign policy, stating that they should not be involved due to their supposed emotional nature.
Despite this, Spencer has seemingly shifted his perspective on women’s capabilities in leadership, stating, “Women on average are as smart as men, if not smarter.” He expressed confidence in Harris as a competent leader and articulated a desire to support her administration.
His endorsement also comes with a twist of irony, as he tweeted, “I’m going to protect women … whether they like it or not!” echoing Trump’s recent comments at a rally. Living in Whitefish, Montana, Spencer indicated he would be voting straight Democratic, despite the state’s Republican leanings.
As the election approaches, this unexpected endorsement raises questions about the evolving political landscape and the complexities of voter alignment. In Montana, where Republican Governor Greg Gianforte holds sway, the Democratic campaign faces challenges, with polls indicating tight races, particularly for Senate and House seats.
