A top official in former President George W. Bush's administration announced her endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris on Fox News Wednesday.
Ann Veneman, the first female Department of Agriculture secretary, told the conservative network she will join a mounting number of Republicans who will not cast a ballot for former President Donald Trump, according to the report.
"As our nation stands at a critical juncture, the upcoming presidential election presents a stark contrast in leadership and values," Veneman said in a reported statement, "particularly for rural communities and agriculture."
Veneman expressed concern about Trump a key promise in his economic platform she argued would have a devastating impact on those she served as Agriculture department secretary.
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"Donald Trump’s current tariff proposal is dangerous for rural America," she said. "It would raise prices on essential goods, harm farmers by undermining key trade relationships, and increase costs for consumers."
She also presented a strong case for Harris and her running mate Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN), both of whom earned praise for their rural-directed policy plans, which include drawing 10,000 healthcare professionals to underserved areas with scholarships, loan forgiveness and grants.
"Their plan for rural communities is a bold vision for the future that invests in economic growth, critical infrastructure, and greater access to care for families," she said. "Together, they offer the leadership we need to help agriculture and rural America thrive."
Veneman joins former Vice President Dick Cheney, his daughter former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY) and a slew of Republican lawmakers in endorsing the candidate that does not represent their political party.
"The Harris campaign aims to put a dent in Trump's strong support in rural communities," Fox News reported.
"Even a small sliver of Republicans supporting Harris could make a consequential impact in what will likely be a race within the margins in the key swing states."
