In a surprising turn of events, more than 100 Republican former national security figures, along with members of Congress, have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. The endorsement comes as a direct response to former President Donald Trump's "demonstrated chaotic and unethical behavior." The letter, signed by a range of prominent Republicans, highlights the qualities that make Harris a suitable candidate for the presidency while criticizing Trump's leadership.

The letter emphasizes concerns about Trump's susceptibility to flattery and manipulation by foreign leaders, specifically mentioning Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. It also criticizes his unusual affinity for authoritarian figures, contempt for ethical and lawful behavior, and chaotic decision-making on national security matters. The signatories firmly state that Trump is unfit to hold the office of President, or any public trust.

Among the notable signatories are former Defense Secretary William Cohen, who served under President Clinton, former CIA Director Michael Hayden, who served under Presidents Obama and George W. Bush, and former Director of National Intelligence John Negroponte, who served under President Bush. Other signatories include former FBI and CIA Director William Webster, who served under Presidents Reagan and George H. W. Bush, as well as former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick, who served under President George W. Bush.

Former Republican lawmakers who signed the letter include former Representatives Charles Boustany, Barbara Comstock, Mickey Edwards, Adam Kinzinger, and Christopher Shays. The group's endorsement of Harris stems from her consistent support for the rule of law, democracy, and constitutional principles. Additionally, they commend her bipartisan approach by agreeing to sign a border security bill. The letter also highlights Harris' support for U.S. allies and her condemnation of adversaries.

It is worth noting that signatories range from individuals who served in the Trump administration to those who go as far back as the Reagan administration. The group consists of outspoken critics of Trump as well as those who have been less vocal. Former high-ranking officials from various government departments, members of the military and intelligence community, as well as ambassadors and other State Department officials, have also lent their support to Harris.

The letter further references Trump's role in inciting the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, quoting former Vice President Mike Pence, who stated that anyone who puts themselves over the Constitution should never be President. The signatories assert that Trump's promotion of daily chaos in government, praise for enemies, undermining of allies, politicization of the military, and betrayal of American values, democracy, and founding documents, along with his defense of the attackers, have violated his oath of office and brought danger to the country.

This endorsement adds to a series of notable support for Harris from GOP figures. Recently, over 230 former Republican staffers and former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, who served under President George W. Bush, also endorsed her. Addressing potential concerns from Republicans who still support Trump or have reservations about Harris' policies, the letter asserts that these concerns pale in comparison to Trump's demonstrated unethical behavior and disregard for constitutional governance.

The group concludes with a warning about the unpredictable nature of Trump's demeanor, stating that it invites equally erratic behavior from adversaries, which poses a threat to global security. The endorsement letter serves as a reminder that in matters of national security, stability and ethical leadership are of utmost importance.

Overall, this endorsement from Republican national security figures adds credibility to Vice President Harris' candidacy and highlights the concerns over Trump's conduct during his presidency. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the impact of these endorsements remains to be seen in the future.