One of Wisconsin’s longest serving Republican lawmakers is coming less than two weeks before Election Day to endorse Kamala Harris for president.
Sen. Rob Cowles, R-Green Bay, appeared on The Rational Revolution Show on Civic Media on Thursday to explain why he’s voting for Haris.
“We have to make a change here, and Trump has to be defeated. We have to protect the constitution,” Cowles explained.
Cowles has been in the Wisconsin legislature for more than 40 years. He currently represents the Green Bay area but is retiring and will not serve in the next session. He admitted his vote will likely be his legacy.
“This is one of the most important things I've done,” Colwes explained. “And hopefully people will accept that and listen to me. Those that have trusted me, and you know believed in me, will think about that.”
Cowles’ endorsement brought almost immediate condemnation from Republicans and conservatives. But it also brought praise from Democrats. Gov. Tony Evers cheered Cowles’ change of heart.
“There is so much on the line this November, and now more than ever, we need leaders who are willing to put country above politics and party,” Evers said on Twitter. “I've always known Sen. Cowles to be a man of honesty and integrity, and his endorsement today speaks not only to his values and character but to the character and values of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.”
Cowles said he’s willing to accept what a Kamala Harris presidency may mean, as long as Trump is denied a second term.
“The country will go on, even with some liberal things that Harris might do, or might not do,” Cowles added. “You have to have the foundation of the Constitution, to protect democracy. If you don’t have that, we will disappear.”
“This election is about the future of our country, and Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are bringing people together from all backgrounds and walks of life to send a clear message to Wisconsinites that there is a place for them in the Harris-Walz campaign and the better future we want to build for our state and country,” Evers added. “I urge Wisconsin nights to join me and Senator towels by voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in this election.”
Cowles said he expects to receive some hate for his decision.
“I probably should have done this sooner but there was concern, you know, about blowback and public safety and all that,” Cowles added. “So, I'm going to be ready for that.”
The latest Quinnipiac Poll shows the presidential race in Wisconsin is tied, 48-48.
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