Adam Kinzinger
Former Illinois Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger pursues his convictions with impressive force and consistency. An institutionalist at heart, Kinzinger has spoken repeatedly about the dangers of political hatred, the corrosion of truth, and the erosion of trust in democratic systems. Throughout his career, he has emphasized the importance of independent courts, free elections, and the peaceful transfer of power as pillars essential to the survival of American democracy.
Kinzinger became a national figure when he was one of only ten House Republicans willing to vote for the second impeachment of President Donald Trump following the January 6 attack on the Capitol. He later played an outsized role as one of just two Republicans serving on the House Select Committee investigating the effort by Trump supporters to violently overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Alongside former Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney, Kinzinger placed the defense of the Constitution above party loyalty and political self-interest.
Like every other Republican who put principle above party, Kinzinger paid a substantial political and personal price. He received death threats, was formally censured by the Illinois Republican Party, and eventually found himself redistricted into a seat he considered unwinnable. In 2021, after a decade in Congress, he chose not to seek reelection.
During an hour-long conversation, Kinzinger expressed deep concern about the impact of constant misinformation and political manipulation. He believes many Americans are overwhelmed by a relentless barrage of falsehoods. Kinzinger argued that the Supreme Court’s Citizens United v. FEC decision profoundly damaged democracy by unleashing enormous flows of corporate money into politics.
A decorated Air Force pilot who rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel, Kinzinger flew dangerous missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and retired from the Air National Guard in 2023 after twenty years of service. Motivated more by conviction than calculation, he demonstrated a rare willingness to oppose his own party when he believed democratic principles were at risk.
Kinzinger continues his crusade and frequently encourages younger Americans to engage in causes larger than themselves. He has not ruled out the possibility of running again for higher office. The Congress, and even the presidency, would be greatly enhanced if he did.
Quote:
“What scares me most is not Donald Trump — it’s the millions of Americans conditioned to believe every election they lose is illegitimate.”
HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 9, 2025