By John Q. Hosedrinker It’s not every day that you hear about a Republican speaking at the Democratic National Convention, but that’s exactly what’s happening this week. Former GOP Rep. Adam Kinzinger is set to take the stage on Thursday, the same night Vice President Kamala Harris will be giving her keynote speech. Now, when it comes to politics, I can’t say I’ve always seen eye to eye with Kinzinger. His voting record and policies haven’t always aligned with my own beliefs. But when it comes to integrity and courage, there’s no denying that Kinzinger stands out.
Kinzinger has been one of the few Republicans who had the backbone to stand up to former President Donald Trump while still in office. He didn’t shy away from holding Trump accountable for his actions, especially in the aftermath of the January 6th attack on the Capitol. His role on the Jan 6th committee was crucial in bringing legitimacy to the investigation. And for that, I have nothing but respect for him.
I may not agree with Kinzinger on everything, but his commitment to democracy and his willingness to put country over party is something worth acknowledging. He may not be your typical GOP representative, but that’s exactly what makes him stand out. His decision to endorse President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign and then Vice President Kamala Harris may not have pleased everyone in his party, but it showed where his priorities lie – with the well-being of the country.
The fact that Kinzinger is willing to speak at the DNC, knowing full well the potential backlash from his own party, speaks volumes about his character. He may not be a perfect politician, but his courage in speaking out against the dangers of Trumpism and the threat it poses to our nation is commendable. In a time when our political landscape is so deeply divided, seeing someone like Kinzinger bridge the gap and stand up for what he believes in is refreshing.
While some may question why the DNC would give a platform to a Republican like Kinzinger, I see it as an opportunity for dialogue and understanding. It’s a chance to hear from someone who may not always align with our views, but who still values democracy and integrity above all else. Kinzinger may not be perfect, but his willingness to speak out against the destructive forces within his own party is a step in the right direction.
As we gear up for the DNC this week and prepare to hear from a diverse lineup of speakers, including Kinzinger, I can’t help but feel hopeful. In a time of deep divisions and political animosity, it’s important to recognize and applaud those who are willing to stand up for what is right, even when it may not be popular. And in that sense, Kinzinger’s presence at the DNC serves as a reminder that there are still individuals in politics who are willing to put principles above party loyalty. And for that, I can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for him.