Restoring Integrity: A Republican’s Case for Joe Biden

Venturing through 15 years as the general counsel for the Republican Party, I am compelled to express my endorsement for Joe Biden.

Joe Biden emerges as a pragmatic solution-seeker, poised to collaborate with Republicans in tackling the pressing challenges amidst this era of unparalleled disruption.

As a lifelong Republican, my decision to back Joe Biden stands firm.

While not in complete alignment with all of Biden’s policy stances, I am resolute in my belief that this election transcends mere policies; it delves into the essence of America’s soul. Our nation cannot withstand another four years under Donald Trump’s leadership.

Historically, I have never cast a vote for a Democratic presidential candidate. My tenure as the General Counsel for the Tennessee Republican Party spans 15 years. During this period, we orchestrated a monumental shift, seizing control of the legislature for the first time post-Reconstruction, ultimately attaining a Republican supermajority in both chambers of the Tennessee legislature.

Active engagement in the Republican National Lawyers Association and the Federalist Society has been a hallmark of my involvement. I have provided counsel to Republican candidates and represented elected Republican officials.

Howard Baker, a stalwart of Republican values, would not have aligned with Trump’s ethos.

I am privileged to practice law within the firm bearing the names of Howard Baker, Jr. and Lewis R. Donelson III, both pivotal figures in shaping the contemporary Tennessee Republican Party. Their legacy embodies a commitment to public service, prioritizing civility and bipartisan collaboration to address societal challenges. Integrity and the public good always superseded partisan interests in their ethos.

While I do not profess to speak on their behalf, envisioning their support for President Trump seems inconceivable. My viewpoints expressed herein are personal, not reflective of the firm or its associates.

Having attended the Republican National Conventions in 2008, 2012, and 2016, my initial optimism for Trump’s candidacy in 2016 gave way to dismay. His demeanor, characterized by vulgarity, racial divisiveness, and falsehoods, diverged starkly from conservative principles and leadership norms.

My stance against Trump in the last election stemmed from his inability to embody true conservative values or respect the rule of law. Despite this, voting for Hillary Clinton remained untenable.

The current imperative is clear: “Trumpism” must be repudiated to restore functionality to our democracy. The presidency has been hijacked, corroding the very essence of the party I’ve ardently supported for years. A healthy democracy necessitates robust ideological debate, not intimidation and personal attacks.

While acknowledging Biden’s imperfections, his genuine concern for the populace and his problem-solving approach resonate deeply. His presidency promises a return to honor, dignity, and adherence to the law.

President Biden will not only reassert America’s global leadership but also reaffirm our commitment to allies, signaling stability and reliability on the world stage.

To those considering support for Trump, I empathize. However, the incontrovertible truth remains: Trump is ill-suited for the presidency.

I implore fellow Republicans to join me in electing Joe Biden. A resounding defeat of Trumpism will pave the way for a renaissance within the Republican Party, centered on serving the nation’s interests.

Cast your vote for Joe Biden, for the betterment of our nation.

Scott Carey, Shareholder at Baker, Donelson, and former General Counsel to the Tennessee Republican Party.