Gen. Milley claimed Trump’s rhetoric about capital punishment endangered him and his family
Former President Donald Trump has sparked controversy within the Republican Party by suggesting that outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mark Milley, may have committed crimes deserving of the death penalty. Trump made these allegations on his social media platform, Truth Social, in response to reports about Milley’s phone call with China following the January 6, 2021, protests.
In his statement, Trump criticized Milley, describing him as a “Woke train wreck” who, according to unverified news reports, had engaged with China to provide them with insight into the thoughts of the President of the United States.
Milley’s phone call with his Chinese counterparts occurred in the wake of the January 6th events and was intended to reassure them that the United States was not facing an internal threat. Milley later testified before Congress that members of the administration were aware of this communication.
Trump’s comments have generated significant debate and division within the Republican Party.
Former President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric by stating, “This is an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH!”
Several of Trump’s fellow Republican 2024 presidential contenders expressed their disapproval of his comments, with former Vice President Mike Pence asserting, “There is no call for that kind of language directed towards someone who’s worn the uniform of the United States and served with such distinction.”
Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson also condemned Trump’s remarks, highlighting the potential danger they pose to Milley and the disrespect they show towards the military. Hutchinson stated, “To suggest that Gen. Milley should be executed is inexcusable and dangerous.”
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie criticized Trump’s remarks during an MSNBC interview, referring to him as an “absolute child” for making such statements. Trump’s comments have generated significant backlash within the Republican Party.
General Mark Milley expressed concern that the rhetoric surrounding his situation could endanger not only himself but also his family. He responded to Trump’s comments by stating, “I wish those comments had not been made, and I’ll take appropriate measures to ensure my safety and the safety of my family.”
Milley explained that he has already taken “adequate safety precautions” in response to Trump’s social media post. He emphasized that these comments not only target him personally but also the military institution as a whole, which consists of 2.1 million service members. Milley reiterated the unwavering loyalty of all military personnel to the Constitution, regardless of any threats or humiliation they may face.