Elite former military leaders have issued unprecedented levels of criticism against President Trump’s response to the protests. Former Defense Secretary James Mattis said in a statement that the President doesn’t even try to unite the country and that the American people need to find a way forward without relying on his leadership. Retired Gen. John Allen criticized Trump’s photo op in front of a church during the protests, saying it was trying to use religion to gloss over an abuse of First amendment rights. Other senior military and political figures, including former Joint Chiefs Chairman Mike Mullen, have also spoken out against Trump’s rhetoric and threats of force against Americans.
Current Secretary of Defense Esper counters Trump on using troops for control of demonstrations.
Current Secretary of Defense Esper counters Trump on using troops for control of demonstrations.