Official statements from former Republican officials and news reports

Former GOP Mayor Shawn Reilly and Rep. Fred Upton Endorse Kamala Harris for President

Oct 24, 2024, 12:22 PM

Former Republican officials Shawn Reilly, the Mayor of Waukesha, Wisconsin, and Fred Upton, a former U.S. Representative from Michigan, have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president, marking the first time either has backed a Democrat for the nation's highest office. Reilly, who left the GOP after January 6, expressed concern over Donald Trump's potential return to the presidency, stating, "I think we're at a crossroads now... This is something that I need to come out and say." He fears the country could head toward authoritarianism should Trump win again. Waukesha is a key Republican stronghold, making Reilly's endorsement significant. Upton, who served in Congress for 36 years and voted to impeach Trump, announced he has already cast his ballot for Harris. He described Trump as "divisive" and "totally unhinged," emphasizing, "We don't need this chaos. We need to move forward." Upton was present at the Capitol on January 6 and witnessed the violence firsthand, which influenced his decision. His endorsement highlights concerns among some Republicans about the party's direction under Trump's leadership.