Donald Trump has taken the lead in the GOP primaries, leaving no competitors behind. The Republican leadership and elected officials are now rallying behind him as the expected nominee. Despite my significant role in the Republican Party’s development in Arkansas and my election to Congress and as governor, I have chosen not to endorse Donald Trump for president.
Becoming a Republican was a choice I made as a young lawyer, inspired by Ronald Reagan’s conservative policies. Reagan’s appointment of me as the youngest U.S. attorney in the nation at 31 years old was a defining moment in my life. It solidified my belief in the importance of principles, character, and civility.
The upcoming election presents a clear choice: Biden needs to regain the support of his 2020 voters, while Trump focuses solely on his MAGA base. Unfortunately, Trump’s actions have reshaped the GOP, prioritizing his ego over the common good. His admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin over Ukraine’s freedom fighters, his shift towards isolationism, and his economic protectionism are not in line with traditional Republican values.
These actions represent a departure from the conservative success story built over the last 50 years. I often get asked if I view Trump as a threat to our democracy. While I’m not one to predict the future, history has shown us the importance of listening to what politicians say they will do.
I voted for Trump twice. However, Liz Cheney’s book and the DOJ’s indictment on January 6 have changed my perspective. The violent attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021, by individuals attempting to overturn the election, was a direct threat to our democracy, not an act of patriotism as Trump claims.
Seeing the attack on law enforcement, the rule of law, and Congress itself convinced me that Trump should never lead our country or party again. Despite many Republican leaders initially agreeing, they later reconciled with the former president, who continues to undermine our democracy.
Trump’s disregard for the checks and balances of our government system, advocating for an all-powerful executive branch, is concerning. As the former governor of Arkansas, I understand the need for a strong executive but also the importance of a balance with the legislature and the courts.
I also cannot support President Joe Biden, given his weak border policies, poor economic performance, and slow energy policy growth. The question remains: where do we go from here? I still believe in the Republican Party’s principles and the importance of global leadership, character, and public service.
As a Republican, I cannot support our presumptive nominee. I hope others will join me in pushing back against this takeover of the Republican Party and fight to reclaim its future.
Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson was a candidate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.