‘Lifelong Republican’ John Kasich praises Biden during DNC speech

He said that Biden is a 'good man, a man of faith, a unifier'.

John Kasich, former governor of Ohio and “lifelong” Republican, gave a speech during the opening night of the Democratic National Convention.

Kasich spoke directly to members of his own party who are looking to turn away from the current administration’s leadership. Kasich also spoke to independents who are unsure of which party to support.

READ MORE: Republicans helping Kanye West secure spot on 2020 ballot

“I’m a lifelong Republican, but that attachment holds second place to my responsibility to my country,” he said. “That’s why I’ve chosen to appear at this convention. In normal times, something like this would probably never happen, but these are not normal times.”

Kasich did not mention President Donald Trump by name, but referred to the “administration” which, he said, has led the United States down a path of “division dysfunction, irresponsibility, and growing vitriol.”

He said that he is backing Joe Biden for president of the United States because he is a “good man, a man of faith, a unifier.”

Kasich served as governor of Ohio from 2011 to 2019. He unsuccessfully sought the Republican nomination for President in 2000 and 2016.

In 2016, Kasich was the last of the 16 candidates to suspend his campaign in the Republican primary races, leaving Trump the presumptive nominee.

READ MORE: Republicans to support Biden-Harris at Democratic convention

“I have always said that the Lord has a purpose for me as he has for everyone, and as I suspend my campaign today I have renewed faith, deeper faith, that the Lord will show me the way forward and fulfill the purpose of my life,” Kasich told supporters four years ago.

In response to Kasich’s presence at the Democratic National Convention, Trump said Kasich was, “a loser as a Republican and he’ll be a loser as a Democrat.”

“Major loser as a Republican. I guess you can quote me on that. John was a loser as a Republican. Never even came close. And as a Democrat, he’ll be an even greater loser,” Trump continued.

Prior to his job as governor, Kasich spent 18 years in Congress, including six years as the chairman of the House budget committee.

Have you subscribed to theGrio’s podcast “Dear Culture”? Download our newest episodes now!

Mentioned in this article:

More About: