Former Wyoming representative Liz Cheney has declared her contemplation of a third-party presidential bid for the 2024 election, expressing her determination to prevent the return of former President Donald Trump to the White House. Cheney, daughter of former Republican Vice President Dick Cheney, made this announcement amid her ongoing critique of Trump’s influence on the Republican Party.
Cheney, ousted from her leadership position in the House of Representatives earlier this year due to her outspoken criticism of Trump and his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot, emphasized her commitment to taking whatever measures necessary to hinder Trump’s electoral success, even if it entails fragmenting the Republican vote.
Speaking with the Washington Post, Cheney asserted that she views the upcoming presidential race as a crucial moment for democracy. She labeled Trump as “not an acceptable alternative” and went further to describe him as “a completely unfit man for office” who had already demonstrated his potential actions if given another opportunity.
“He’s already shown us what he would do, and he can never be near the Oval Office again,” Cheney stated in an interview published on Tuesday, coinciding with the release of her new book, *Oath and Honour: A Memoir and a Warning.*
In her memoir, Cheney characterizes Trump as “the most dangerous man ever to inhabit the Oval Office” and recounts events surrounding the 2020 election. She alleges that Trump attempted to overturn the results and incite a violent insurrection.
While Cheney has not made a final decision on her presidential candidacy, she remains open to the possibility of running as an independent or representing a new party reflecting the semi-moderate faction of the Republican Party. Cheney expressed her desire for a “viable alternative” to Trump and his loyalists, accusing them of undermining the rule of law and the Constitution.
“Several years ago, I would not have contemplated a third-party run. I happen to think democracy is at risk at home, obviously, as a result of Donald Trump’s continued grip on the Republican party, and I think democracy is at risk internationally as well,” Cheney remarked, pointing to the rise of authoritarian regimes and the decline of American leadership globally.
Cheney’s potential third-party bid poses a significant challenge to Trump, who, although not officially declaring his candidacy for 2024, has hinted at plans to run again and has maintained a robust hold on the Republican base. The upcoming months are poised to witness a dynamic and potentially divisive political landscape as both figures navigate their paths toward the 2024 presidential election.
