Summary
Concerns about Donald Trump’s authoritarian tendencies have been expressed by former military leaders and advisors, particularly regarding his willingness to use military force against perceived domestic threats. Reports indicate that Trump has suggested deploying federal troops against protesters and has shown interest in using military action against various groups he views as adversaries.
General Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, described Trump as “fascist to the core” in a recent book by Bob Woodward, emphasizing his belief that Trump poses a significant danger to American democracy. Milley’s comments reflect broader worries within national security circles about Trump’s potential actions if re-elected, including the possibility of ordering military trials against former officials who oppose him. He has also faced a barrage of threats since leaving office, which he attributes to Trump’s rhetoric.
Military Force and Domestic Protest
Former aides to Trump, including Olivia Troye, have recounted alarming instances where they had to dissuade him from using military force against peaceful protesters. Troye noted that Trump suggested shooting at protesters, highlighting his authoritarian impulses during moments of civil unrest. This sentiment is echoed by Kevin Carroll, another former advisor, who detailed Trump’s desire to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy military troops against demonstrators during the George Floyd protests and on January 6, 2021.
Rhetoric and Violence
Milley has expressed concerns about Trump’s use of violent rhetoric and its potential to incite violence among his supporters. He pointed out that Trump employs a “power of suggestion” approach, which can lead to real-world consequences, as seen during the Capitol riots. The former general’s worries are compounded by the belief that Trump’s rhetoric could mobilize individuals to act violently against those he perceives as threats, including the media and political opponents.
These discussions underscore a growing anxiety about the implications of Trump’s leadership style and the potential for authoritarian governance, particularly if he returns to the presidency in 2025.
'Horrifying': Ex-aide recalls begging Trump not to have troops shoot at protesting friends
Oct. 15 / Raw Story / Presents a chilling firsthand account from a former aide, detailing Trump's alarming suggestions regarding military action against protesters. This unique perspective underscores the potential consequences of Trump's rhetoric. “ A former advisor to Vice President Mike Pence says she had to convince then-President Donald Trump not to send federal troops to shoot at her friends and...
'Woke train wreck': Triggered spokesman lashes out at ex-general who called Trump fascist
Oct. 12 / Raw Story / Calls attention to the sharp exchange between Trump's campaign and General Milley, revealing the ongoing tensions surrounding Trump's perceived authoritarianism. It captures the emotional stakes involved, enhancing its depth. “ A spokesperson for former President Donald Trump lashed out Saturday at the former U.S. Army general who called his boss an an authoritarian threat to...
Trump is ‘fascist to the core,’ Milley says in Woodward book
Oct. 12 / The Washington Post / Offers a succinct summary of Milley's claims from Woodward's book, establishing a clear context for the ongoing debate about Trump's leadership style. The concise nature makes it an efficient read for those seeking key insights. “ The former chairman of the Joint Chiefs says Trump is “the most dangerous person to this country,” echoing dire warnings of others in national security circles.
Donald Trump Campaign Responds to Mark Milley Calling Him 'Fascist'
Oct. 12 / Newsweek / Highlights Milley's alarming assessment of Trump as "the most dangerous person" and his concerns about potential military misuse. The authoritative voice of a former military leader adds significant weight to the discussion. “ Donald Trump's campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung blasted General Mark Milley after it was reported that he described the former president as "fascist to...