Michigan’s GOP Veteran Fred Upton Breaks Ranks: Makes Stunning Harris Endorsement
In a dramatic shift that underscores growing Republican dissent, former Representative Fred Upton (R-MI) has thrown his support behind Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, marking his first-ever endorsement of a Democratic presidential nominee after serving 18 terms in Congress.
“I just think people have had enough, particularly moderate Republicans,” Upton declared in a candid interview, pointing to mounting frustration with former President Donald Trump’s continued influence on the party. The veteran Republican’s decision has a significant impact on Michigan’s political landscape, as his voice holds significant weight among centrist voters.
Upton’s move comes after a Wednesday phone call with Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz, though he maintains his endorsement decision was entirely independent. The two share a history of collaboration, having served together in the House for twelve years.
What makes this endorsement particularly noteworthy is Upton’s sterling Republican credentials. As a well-respected figure who dedicated 36 years to Washington before his 2022 retirement, he built a reputation as a skilled dealmaker who could work across party lines. His stance against Trump isn’t new; he was among the ten House Republicans who voted for Trump’s impeachment following the January 6 Capitol attack.
Upton bluntly criticized Trump, saying, “He’s just totally unhinged.” We don’t need this chaos.” He expressed particular concern over Trump’s persistent claims about the 2020 election and his treatment of women, highlighting the former president’s failure to focus on current issues.
Despite crossing party lines for the presidential race, Upton hasn’t abandoned his Republican roots entirely. He’s backing former Rep. Mike Rogers for Michigan’s open Senate seat over Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin, whom he describes as a “good friend.”
The timing of this endorsement could prove crucial in Michigan, a key battleground state with 15 electoral college votes at stake. Upton’s influence extends particularly to centrist Michigan voters and independents—demographics that could prove decisive in the upcoming election.
“There are a lot of folks that want our party back,” Upton emphasized, suggesting that defeating Trump could help restore traditional Republican values. His endorsement joins those of other prominent Michigan Republicans, including Dave Trott, Joe Schwarz, and Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President Gerald Ford.
Looking ahead, Upton advised Harris to emphasize her bipartisan approach: “She needs to pitch the bipartisanship, which she’s doing—that was the deciding factor for me.” Despite meeting Harris only a few times during her vice presidency, he expressed confidence in her ability to work across party lines.
The former congressman clarified he isn’t seeking a position in a potential Harris administration, despite her pledge to include Republicans in her cabinet. “I’m not dusting off my resume,” he quipped, adding that he’s content with his current role as a grandfather.
As the election approaches, Upton’s endorsement highlights a growing trend of traditional Republicans breaking ranks, potentially signaling a broader shift in party dynamics.
His decision, along with those of other former GOP lawmakers, could influence moderate voters in crucial Michigan areas like Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, and Oakland County—regions known for their independent voting patterns and careful consideration of candidates.
This development represents more than just another political endorsement; it symbolizes a pivotal moment in American politics where party loyalty gives way to broader concerns about leadership and governance.