There are far too many traitors within the GOP.
Matthew McCaffery, a prominent Republican figure in Upper Merion Township, Pennsylvania, faces potential ousting from his party role after publicly endorsing a Democrat for the presidency. McCaffery, who has served as the Republican municipal chair, has recently expressed his support for Vice President Kamala Harris and has actively used his platform to encourage Republicans to oppose former President Donald Trump.
In a notable shift, McCaffery, who had previously voted for Trump in 2016, endorsed President Joe Biden in July. His decision was influenced by concerns over Trump’s rhetoric, his handling of the U.S. military, and his response to the Capitol riot. This endorsement has stirred controversy within Republican circles, particularly among those who believe in a unified front against the Democrats.
Prominent members of the Republican Party, including former Trump administration officials, have shown support for Harris, exemplified by events like the “Republicans for Harris” gathering. Nonetheless, McCaffery’s actions have drawn ire from many in the Montgomery County Republican Committee. Christian Nascimento, the committee chair, emphasized that if McCaffery cannot support the party’s endorsed candidates, it might be in his best interest to step down from his role. Nascimento pointed out that McCaffery’s endorsement of a Democrat contravenes party bylaws, which require support for the party’s ticket.
McCaffery is set to face a disciplinary hearing on August 19, and he anticipates that his tenure as municipal chair may come to an end. Despite the backlash, McCaffery has maintained that while he understands the criticism, he believes his stance reflects a necessary realignment away from what he describes as Trump’s divisive influence.
In a July op-ed for The Philadelphia Inquirer, McCaffery criticized Trump’s attitude toward the military and expressed respect for Biden’s approach to service members, even though he disagrees with many of Biden’s policies. McCaffery’s criticism of Trump is partly influenced by his service under James Mattis, who has publicly condemned Trump’s leadership style.
As the 2024 election approaches, Pennsylvania remains a pivotal swing state. Polls have shown fluctuating support, with recent figures indicating a tight race between Harris and Trump. Harris is actively seeking to appeal to disenchanted Republicans, with endorsements from Trump critics, but early polling suggests she has not yet gained as much support from Republicans as Biden did previously.
McCaffery remains resolute in his opposition to another Trump presidency, stating, “I will keep on doing exactly what I told people I was planning to do … oppose another Trump presidency even if that means going against my own party.” His commitment to his position underscores a broader debate within the Republican Party about its future direction and leadership.
