As Election Day 2024 nears, a striking image has emerged on American screens: former Representative Liz Cheney, a staunch Republican, stands side by side with Vice President Kamala Harris, endorsing her for her dedication to the Constitution and peaceful transfer of power. Cheney is joined by a growing list of Republicans—over 200 in total—who have served under past Republican presidents like George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush and figures like John McCain and Mitt Romney. If former President Ronald Reagan were here today, his stance would likely align with this group. Here’s why.
Reagan’s Vision on Trade and Trump’s Opposing Stance
Ronald Reagan consistently championed free trade, cautioning against protectionist policies that could hurt both the U.S. economy and global stability. In a 1982 address, Reagan pointed out that past efforts to isolate the American economy led to massive global economic distress and even contributed to the onset of World War II. In stark contrast, Donald Trump frequently speaks of tariffs as a “beautiful word,” advocating for their use to protect U.S. markets. This sentiment diverges sharply from Reagan’s belief in the power of free markets.
Immigrants as a Strength: Reagan vs. Trump
Reagan saw immigration as a cornerstone of American vitality. In his farewell speech, he praised immigrants as central to America’s ongoing renewal, warning that closing the door to newcomers would harm America’s global leadership. Trump’s views are markedly different. From his push to build a border wall to his inflammatory rhetoric on immigrants, Trump’s stance starkly contrasts with Reagan’s inclusive vision. For instance, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has refuted Trump’s recent claims that Haitian immigrants in Ohio are a burden, noting that these immigrants are revitalizing the local economy—an outcome Reagan would likely have celebrated.
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Tax Policy Alignment: Reagan and Harris on Pro-Family, Pro-Growth Initiatives
Reagan’s tax policies focused on aiding families and boosting economic opportunities. He strongly supported the Earned Income Tax Credit, calling it the “best antipoverty bill” and praising its impact on American families. Kamala Harris has proposed similar policies, including a $6,000 tax credit for new parents, a $50,000 credit for entrepreneurs, and a $25,000 credit for first-time homebuyers. Conservative commentator Bill Kristol even remarked, “Kamala Harris, Reagan Democrat!” on social media after hearing her ideas.
Strong Stance on Russia: Reagan’s Legacy vs. Trump’s Controversial Ties
Reagan’s reputation as a Cold Warrior remains unmatched, and his fierce opposition to the Soviet Union was clear. Today, Putin seeks to resurrect Russian imperial power, and Reagan’s anti-communist stance would likely lead him to support Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty. Trump’s view diverges here as well; he has opposed additional U.S. aid to Ukraine and claims he could resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict in a single day. Kamala Harris has characterized Trump’s approach as a “unilateral surrender” to Putin’s regime. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi once noted, “[With Trump] all roads lead to Putin,” emphasizing Trump’s alignment with Russian interests.
Personal Demeanor: Reagan’s Optimism vs. Trump’s Polarizing Persona
Known for his charm and optimism, Reagan uplifted Americans, embodying a president who inspired the nation. His leadership helped restore national pride after Vietnam and Watergate. In contrast, Trump’s confrontational style has drawn criticism for exacerbating divisions. Liz Cheney herself captured this sentiment by saying, “If you wouldn’t hire somebody [like Trump] to babysit your kids, you shouldn’t make that guy the president of the United States.”
Honoring Character: The Core of Reagan’s Beliefs
Ronald Reagan held character as central to leadership. Echoing the sentiments of John Adams, who prayed that only “honest and wise men” would rule under the White House roof, Reagan valued leaders who exemplified integrity. He famously said he didn’t leave the Democratic Party; it left him, due to ideological shifts. Similarly, Reagan might say the Republican Party has strayed from his values in the Trump era—a sentiment shared by Cheney and other Republicans endorsing Harris.
