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In a stunning twist to her political career, Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., is considering a third-party run for the White House. This dramatic turn of events follows her loss in the Republican primary to Rep. Harriet Hageman, a candidate backed by former President Donald Trump. Cheney’s defeat, widely viewed as payback for her impeachment vote against Trump and her involvement in the January 6 Capitol insurrection probe, has not dampened her political ambitions.

Cheney’s contemplation of an independent presidential bid, as reported by The Washington Post, is part of her determined effort to thwart Trump’s potential return to the Oval Office. “A few years ago, I would not have imagined running as a third-party candidate,” Cheney confessed to WaPo, “but democracy is under threat, both domestically under Trump’s influence over the GOP and globally.”

Her possible candidacy, appealing to independents, disenchanted Republicans, and some Democrats, raises concerns about inadvertently splitting the anti-Trump vote, potentially aiding his campaign. Cheney, aware of these risks, vows not to act in ways that could assist Trump’s comeback.

The decision remains pending, with Cheney set to announce her intentions in early 2024. She asserts the need for a candidate capable of confronting significant national threats. Despite her Republican roots, Cheney has not dismissed the idea of supporting, or even campaigning for, President Biden if he is the Democratic nominee in 2024. Her goal is clear: to prevent a pro-Trump GOP majority in the House and to back candidates who uphold constitutional values, regardless of their party.

Recently, Cheney has been a frequent guest on left-leaning talk shows, signaling a potential shift in her political alignment. Critics advise Cheney against running, predicting failure and suggesting her views align more closely with the Democratic Party. The question looms: Is Liz Cheney’s potential third-party bid a courageous stand for democracy, or a miscalculated move destined for failure?