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Former Bush Official Endorses VP Harris Over Trump

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris during the Democratic National Convention Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

A significant development in the political landscape has emerged as Ann Veneman, a prominent figure in former President George W. Bush's administration and the first female Department of Agriculture secretary in U.S. history, has thrown her support behind Vice President Kamala Harris over former President Trump. Veneman's endorsement, revealed to sources on Wednesday, underscores the Harris campaign's strategy to attract Republicans who did not back Trump during the GOP nomination race and to challenge Trump's rural voter base.

Veneman, who has a distinguished background in agriculture and government, expressed concerns over Trump's tariff proposals, citing potential negative impacts on rural America. She praised Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, for their vision for rural communities, emphasizing investments in economic growth, infrastructure, and healthcare access.

The Harris campaign has been actively engaging rural voters, proposing initiatives such as recruiting healthcare professionals for underserved areas. This outreach aims to counter Trump's strong support among rural voters, a demographic he won decisively in the 2020 election.

Harris campaign targets anti-Trump Republicans to challenge Trump's rural voter base.
Ann Veneman endorses Kamala Harris over Trump, focusing on rural issues.
Veneman praises Harris and Walz for their vision for rural communities.

Veneman's endorsement aligns her with other high-ranking Republicans, including former Vice President Dick Cheney, who have backed Harris. Notably, Harris recently campaigned in key battleground states alongside former Rep. Liz Cheney, who has been vocal in opposing Trump's return to power following the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021.

While Trump maintains significant influence within the GOP, the support of even a small faction of Republicans for Harris could impact the upcoming election, particularly in swing states. The Harris campaign's outreach efforts include on-the-ground events and media campaigns targeting anti-Trump Republicans.

At a recent campaign event in Pennsylvania, Harris was joined by prominent anti-Trump Republicans, receiving support from lifelong Republicans like the Langes, who faced backlash for their public endorsement of Harris. Despite the challenges, the Langes have found solidarity among like-minded Republicans who appreciate their stance against Trump.

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