This letter to the editor, by Cheri Evjen, appeared in the Hudson Star Observer on September 12, 2024.

Democrats brought out a large group of knowledgeable and talented speakers during their convention to convince American voters to elect Kamala Harris. The amazing thing is how many of those speakers were Republicans. Here is what Kamala Harris’ Republican allies had to say::

Adam Kinzinger spoke of Democratic patriotism, the need to defend the vulnerable and your family, and be willing to stand up for the Constitution and democracy. “It used to be the soul of being a Republican, but Donald Trump has suffocated the soul of the Republican Party.”

Former White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham described herself as one of Trump’s closest advisors. But she said, “He has no empathy, no morals, and no fidelity to the truth.” Trump frequently told her, “It doesn’t matter what you say Stephanie. Say it enough and people will believe you.”

Former Georgia Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan lamented that under Trump’s control the Republican party has become “chaotic and crazy.” He urged people to vote for Harris, and said, “If you vote for Kamala Harris in 2024, you’re not a Democrat, you’re a patriot.”

Homeland security aide to Mike Pence, Olivia Troye, saw how Trump undermined our intelligence leader, our military, and the democratic process. She said, “Being in Trump’s White House was terrifying, but what keeps me up at night is what will happen if he gets back in.”

Former Trump supporters Alabama steelworker Kyle Sweetster and Florida businessman Rich Logis have joined Republican Voters Against Trump. “I believe our leaders should bring out the best in us, not the worst”, observed Sweetster. Logis described himself as a “full-fledged member of MAGA” who eventually “stepped outside the MAGA echo chamber” and discovered the extent of Trump’s lies. “I made a grave mistake, but it’s never too late to change your mind.”

Join these Republicans who value country over party. Democrats, Independents and Republicans can once again unite in the best interests of the nation by electing Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.