As the only individual in American history to serve as both White House Counsel and Attorney General, I offer a unique perspective on presidential decision-making. My experience has shown me the importance of electing a leader who respects the rule of law and understands the gravity of the powers entrusted to the office of the president.
The presidency is the most powerful position in the world, yet it is the integrity of the president—his or her honesty, respect for the law, and commitment to institutions—that acts as the ultimate safeguard against abuses of power. As we approach a pivotal election, I cannot remain silent as former President Donald Trump, perhaps the greatest threat to the rule of law in a generation, eyes a return to the White House. For this reason, I am making the difficult decision to support Kamala Harris for president, despite my alignment with the Republican Party.
The current political climate underscores the need for a president who respects the Constitution and our institutions. Congress, sadly, has shown itself to be ineffective in holding the executive branch accountable, and the U.S. Supreme Court has recently made troubling decisions regarding presidential immunity and the limits of executive power. These rulings, while perhaps constitutionally sound, have the potential to embolden a president to act in self-serving ways without fear of prosecution. A president, especially one like Trump, could exploit these protections for political or personal gain, undermining the very fabric of our democracy.
Trump’s conduct on January 6, 2021, serves as perhaps the clearest example of this risk. His encouragement of the Capitol insurrection, followed by his inaction in the face of the ensuing violence, reveals a character unfit to wield presidential power responsibly. Even now, Trump refers to that day as “beautiful,” and expresses sympathy for those convicted for their roles in the riots. His refusal to acknowledge the gravity of his actions speaks volumes about his disregard for the Constitution and the rule of law.
Trump’s criminal behavior and his ongoing legal troubles—from his 34 state felony convictions to his alleged involvement in election interference—demonstrate a consistent pattern of misconduct. These actions reflect a disregard for the rule of law, and there is little evidence to suggest he would govern with the integrity necessary to uphold our nation’s most cherished principles. This is not a judgment based solely on policy differences, but on character and integrity.
To be clear, my interactions with Trump are limited, and I do not know him personally. However, many of his former allies—people who served by his side—have distanced themselves from him, refusing to support his political comeback. This disavowal speaks volumes about his fitness to lead.
Kamala Harris, on the other hand, has demonstrated a commitment to the rule of law throughout her career as a prosecutor and state attorney general. While her record may not be perfect and there are policies with which I may disagree, I believe she has the judgment, character, and respect for constitutional principles that are necessary for a president in these tumultuous times. While the vice presidency often limits a leader’s ability to shape policy, Harris has proven herself capable in her public service, and I am hopeful she will govern in a manner that respects all three branches of government.
In this election, we face a choice between two fundamentally different approaches to leadership. Trump has shown us who he is and how he governs—through selfishness, dishonesty, and a desire to use power for personal gain. Harris, though untested in the same way, has displayed an unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and the Constitution.
Casting a vote for Harris requires trust in her ability to unite a divided nation, to govern with dignity, and to uphold the rule of law. It requires a belief that she will lead with the interests of the American people at heart. I believe that Harris is the right choice to safeguard our liberties and ensure that our nation remains a beacon of democracy and justice.
In the end, this election is about more than policy differences—it is about ensuring that our president respects the rule of law and works to protect the institutions that make our democracy the envy of the world. I believe Kamala Harris is that leader, and for that reason, I proudly offer my support.
