Former Rep. Liz Cheney expressed her concerns about the role of intimidation in Jim Jordan’s campaign for Speaker of the House. In an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Cheney, a Wyoming Republican, condemned the acceptance of political violence and threats as part of our politics. She further criticized the strong-arm tactics employed by some of Jordan’s supporters in an attempt to coerce Republican opponents into supporting him for speaker. Jordan ultimately withdrew his bid after three failed ballots.
Cheney emphasized that these tactics are indicative of the current state of American politics, calling them inappropriate and dangerous. Earlier, she voiced worries about Jordan becoming speaker due to his ties to former President Donald Trump and his involvement in the efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Cheney accused Jordan of having knowledge about Trump’s plans for January 6, stating this during a speech at the University of Minnesota.
Although Jordan was not elected speaker, Cheney expressed her disappointment in her former Republican colleagues for not taking a stronger stance against those who kowtow to Trump. She called for courage and a vocal opposition within both parties to stand up for the Constitution and reject such behavior.
Cheney, who previously served as chair of the House Republican Conference, was defeated in Wyoming’s 2022 Republican primary. She had been an active member of the House’s Jan. 6 panel led by Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.). Cheney’s consistent criticism of Trump, backed by her primary opponent, led to her defeat. Expressing her concern about Trump’s potential future presidential candidacy, Cheney warned that without responsible individuals serving as guardrails, he would be unrestrained.
While not ruling out a future run herself, Cheney stressed the need for the Republican Party to redirect its focus and return to advocating conservative policies and embracing the Constitution. According to her, the party has lost its way and must find its footing once again.
