### Former GOP Rep. Fred Upton Endorses Kamala Harris, Urging Moderation in Politics

In a surprising move, retired Republican Representative Fred Upton has endorsed Democratic candidate Kamala Harris for president. Upton, who had a distinguished 36-year tenure in Washington before retiring in 2022, insists that his decision was made independently of any outside influence, even though he received a phone call from Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz the day prior.

Explaining his stance, Upton highlighted the dissatisfaction among moderate Republicans with former President Donald Trump. "I just think people have had enough," Upton shared in an interview with POLITICO, expressing no regret over his decision. He emphasized that he's not alone in his sentiments, noting that over 30 former House Republicans share similar views.

Upton's endorsement of a Democratic candidate, while noteworthy, isn't entirely out of character given his history of bipartisan collaboration. Notably, he was among the ten House Republicans who voted to impeach Trump following the January 6 Capitol attack. This willingness to cross party lines showcases his long-standing commitment to bipartisanship, despite being a respected Republican figure.

While Upton may not share the national prominence of other GOP figures like former Rep. Liz Cheney, his influence in Michigan politics is considerable. Representing a centrist voice in Michigan, Upton appeals to both moderate Republicans and independents, a crucial demographic for Harris as she aims to secure Michigan's 15 Electoral College votes.

Despite his endorsement of Harris, Upton is not forsaking the GOP entirely. He is backing former Rep. Mike Rogers for Michigan's open Senate seat over his personal friend, Rep. Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat. His endorsement of Harris, he insists, goes beyond opposition to Trump; it is rooted in a belief in bipartisanship. He advised Harris to emphasize her ability to work across the aisle to win over centrist voters in Michigan.

Upton denied any ambitions for a Cabinet position in a potential Harris administration, although he appreciated her commitment to appointing a Republican to a cabinet post, referring to a call he received from former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood following his endorsement.

He believes that endorsements from cross-party figures like himself, along with others such as Rep. Dave Trott, Rep. Joe Schwarz, and Susan Ford Bales, could influence the outcome in the crucial swing state of Michigan. "Those areas, from Susan Ford to Fred Upton to Joe Schwarz to Dave Trott, they now have a reason to vote for Harris," Upton remarked, referencing key regions like Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, and Oakland County.

Despite the friction with his party in recent years, Upton remains hopeful for the GOP's future, envisioning a return to its foundational principles post-Trump. "There are a lot of folks that want our party back," he said, stressing the importance of expanding the party's appeal beyond its base. With the election approaching, Upton criticized Trump’s persistent divisive tactics, lamenting the ongoing "absolute chaos."