Former Representative Liz Cheney, ousted from Congress by a Trump-endorsed candidate, is embarking on a new chapter as a professor at the University of Virginia’s Center for Politics. A seasoned Republican and vocal critic of Donald Trump, Cheney’s loss in the Wyoming primary last year underscored the former president’s enduring influence within the GOP. Now, she turns her focus to academia, where she plans to engage with students on the vital importance of preserving America’s constitutional democracy.
Cheney’s appointment as a professor of practice for UVA runs through the fall of 2023, marking a significant shift from the political arena to the educational sphere. In her new role, she will deliver university-wide lectures, contribute as a guest lecturer, and participate in research, aiming to impart her extensive experience in governance and her steadfast commitment to democratic principles.
Liz Cheney’s tenure in Congress, which began in 2017, witnessed her rise to the third-highest GOP post in the House as the House Republican Conference Chair. However, her vote to impeach Trump following the January 6 Capitol insurrection and her role as vice chair of the committee investigating the event marked a turning point in her political journey. These actions catalyzed her removal from the GOP leadership and ultimately cost her the primary election to Harriet Hageman.
Yet Cheney remains undeterred in her advocacy for the rule of law and the integrity of American elections. At UVA, she aims to continue this advocacy, stating, “Preserving our constitutional republic is the most important work of our time, and our nation’s young people will play a crucial role in this effort.” Her position aligns with the University of Virginia’s commitment to exposing students to diverse viewpoints, with UVA President Jim Ryan emphasizing the unique learning opportunity Cheney’s presence will provide.
Larry J. Sabato, director of the UVA Center for Politics, lauded Cheney as a “true profile in courage,” whose political bravery and leadership will send a “compelling message to students about integrity.” Cheney’s willingness to pay the price for her convictions resonates with her new educational mission. As she engages with the UVA community, Cheney’s experience is poised to challenge and inspire students to consider the broader implications of political action and inaction on the health of democracy.
Relevant articles:
– Former GOP Rep. Liz Cheney, who lost her seat in Congress to Trump-backed challenger, to teach at UVA, Yahoo
– Liz Cheney to Serve as Professor of Practice at UVA Center for Politics, UVA Today
– Former GOP lawmaker Liz Cheney to teach at University of Virginia, Washington Post
– Rep. Liz Cheney loses her primary in Wyoming to Trump-backed challenger, NBC News