McChrystal backs Harris for president in New York Times op-ed

Retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal announced in an editorial published Thursday that he would be endorsing Vice President Harris for president, saying "I have cast my vote for character."

“Ms. Harris has the strength, the temperament and, importantly, the values to serve as commander in chief,” he wrote in The New York Times. “When she sits down with world leaders like President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, representing the United States on the global stage, I have no doubt that she is working in our national interest, not her own.” 

McChrystal, who did not mention former President Trump’s name in his op-ed, noted that he tends to hold centrist positions on issues and “was not comfortable” with the policies that Democrats and Republicans advocated for during their respective conventions.

Still, he said, “although I have opinions on high-profile issues, like abortion, gun safety and immigration, that’s not why I made my decision.” 

“Our president,” McChrystal suggested, “must be more than a policymaker or a malleable reflection of the public’s passions. She or he must lead — and that takes character.” 

 “I’ve thought deeply about my choice and considered what I’ve seen and heard and what I owe my three granddaughters,” he explained. “I’ve concluded that it isn’t political slogans or cultural tribalism; it is the best president my vote might help select. So I have cast my vote for character, and that vote is for Vice President Kamala Harris.” 

McChrystal has criticized the former president in the past. During an interview in 2018, he said he would turn down an offer to join the Trump administration and said, “I don't think he tells the truth.” He also said he believed Trump was immoral. 

The GOP nominee lashed out at the retired general several days after the interview, writing in a post on the social platform now known as X, “‘General’ McChrystal got fired like a dog by Obama. Last assignment a total bust. Known for big, dumb mouth. Hillary lover!” 

Ten retired top military officials have backed Harris over Trump in the presidential race in addition to hundreds of top national security officials.