According to Newsweek, former Representative Adam Kinzinger has declared the Republican Party dead following the 2024 RNC convention, criticizing the event as a celebration of Donald Trump and his "cult of personality."
Kinzinger's comments highlighted key moments such as Trump's nomination, the selection of JD Vance as running mate, and Peter Navarro's controversial speech.
The Republican National Convention (RNC) took place in Milwaukee, marking a significant event in the political calendar. Former President Donald Trump accepted the GOP's nomination for the 2024 election, delivering a speech that lasted over 90 minutes. Trump's family members, GOP officials, candidates, entertainers, celebrities, and industry leaders appeared at the convention.
Adam Kinzinger, a former Illinois Republican Representative, declared the GOP dead in a post on X (formerly Twitter) following the convention.
In a Substack article titled "The Convention Spoke and Told Us: The GOP is Dead," Kinzinger elaborated on his thoughts about the convention. He noted the lack of serious policy debates and the celebration of Trump, who he believes has transformed the party into a "cult of personality."
Kinzinger's article emphasized the key moments of the convention, particularly Trump's choice of JD Vance as his running mate and former White House adviser Peter Navarro's speech. According to Kinzinger, Trump's selection of Vance, known for his previous criticism of Trump and support for independent candidate Evan McMullin in 2016, signaled a departure from traditional GOP values.
JD Vance was announced as Trump's running mate earlier in the week, garnering significant attention and scrutiny. Vance's political positions and his previous criticism of Trump raised eyebrows among traditional Republicans. Kinzinger highlighted this choice as indicative of Trump's disregard for appeasing the old-style GOP members.
Recently released from federal prison, Peter Navarro delivered a speech at the convention that resonated with the crowd. Navarro's address focused on his fears about government control, a message that Kinzinger criticized as feeding into the "cult of Trump." Kinzinger noted the crowd's enthusiastic response to Navarro's message, emphasizing the shift in the party's priorities.
Steve Bannon, another prominent figure in Trump's circle, began his prison sentence on July 1 for refusing to cooperate with the January 6 investigation. His absence at the convention was notable but did not deter the focus on Trump's leadership and influence over the party.
In response to Kinzinger's declaration, the Republican National Committee criticized his career and reiterated their support for Trump. RNC spokesperson Kush Desai stated, "The only thing that's dead is Adam Kinzinger's political career," highlighting Kinzinger's strained relationship with the party.
Kinzinger's endorsement of Joe Biden in June also drew mixed reactions. He justified his support for Biden by emphasizing his commitment to democracy and the Constitution. Some saw this endorsement as a betrayal of conservative values, while others viewed it as a principled stand against Trumpism.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene responded to Kinzinger's endorsement with criticism on X, stating:
Oh look, Kinzinger finally came out of the closet. As usual, we knew all along, so not a surprise and none of us care.
The Republican National Convention in Milwaukee has brought to the forefront the ongoing debate about the future of the GOP. Adam Kinzinger's declaration of the party's death, his criticism of the convention, and his endorsement of Joe Biden illustrate the deep divisions within the party. The coming months will reveal how these tensions play out as the 2024 election draws nearer.
