The Unveiling of Liz Cheney’s Memoir: A Narrow Perspective
When it comes to memoirs, Liz Cheney’s latest book may leave some readers desiring a broader scope. Curiously, she fails to delve into the pre-January 6 era, as if history only began on that fateful day. It’s as if the numerous warning signs about Trump’s authoritarian tendencies were dismissed or unheard. Cheney’s belief in the resilience of the country’s constitutional principles, she admits, was shattered on January 6, 2021.
Cheney’s Selective Memory
But did nothing change for Cheney before January 6? Was there no cause for concern prior to that pivotal moment? It seems that Cheney, who has openly expressed regret for voting for Trump in 2020, sidesteps any self-reflection or reevaluation in her memoir. She only briefly explains her decision to vote against Trump’s first Impeachment, suggesting that additional evidence was needed. As a former State Department official, she should recognize the manipulation of diplomacy for political gain.
Shifting Blame: Social Media and Trump’s Influence
Instead of examining her own choices, Cheney places blame on those who failed to distance themselves from Trump after the 2020 election and the events of January 6. She points to their social media echo chambers and exposure to pro-Trump news outlets like Fox News and Newsmax. According to Cheney, a longtime Wyoming donor fell for election fraud misinformation, while a close family friend fully embraced Trump’s lies. However, it’s important to remember that history did not start with the Capitol violence three years ago.
A Courageous Stand, But a Limited Perspective
Cheney’s bravery in confronting her party over Trump’s unfounded claims about the election should not be discredited by her previous support for him. Her leadership in the House Jan. 6 committee prioritized patriotism over partisanship. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that Trump’s deceit, disrespect for democratic norms, and attacks on government institutions were not confined to the final weeks of his presidency. His baseless claims of electoral fraud predated the 2020 election, and his similar rhetoric prior to the 2016 election was only nullified by his unexpected victory.
Read More of this Story at www.nytimes.com – 2023-12-14 10:03:47
Read More US Politics
