In a recent revelation from Bob Woodward's upcoming book, 'War,' retired General Mark Milley has described former President Donald Trump as a 'total fascist' and the 'most dangerous person ever.' This stark assessment underscores the deep-seated concerns Milley has about Trump's potential return to power and the implications it could have for national security and democratic stability.
1. Mark Milley's Concerns About Trump's Fascist Tendencies
Milley, who served as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during both the Trump and Biden administrations, has been vocal about his fears regarding Trump's authoritarian tendencies. In an excerpt from Woodward's book, Milley expressed his doubts about Trump's mental decline but now firmly believes that Trump embodies total fascism. He emphasized, 'He is now the most dangerous person to this country.'
Milley's concerns are not merely theoretical; they are rooted in his experiences during Trump's presidency. He recounted a 2020 Oval Office meeting where Trump yelled and shouted about wanting to court-martial former generals who criticized him in the press. Milley managed to calm Trump down but fears that others might not be so lucky if Trump regains power.
The Guardian's coverage of Woodward's book highlights Milley's cautionary warnings to his former associates in Washington. He described Trump as a 'walking, talking advertisement of what he's going to try to do,' and added that it's not just Trump but also those around him who pose a threat. Specifically, he mentioned Steve Bannon, who is currently incarcerated for contempt of Congress and has issued threats against Milley.
2. Trump's History of Authoritarian Behavior
Trump's behavior during his presidency has been marked by authoritarian tendencies. He frequently employed overtly fascist language when discussing immigrants in the United States, claiming that undocumented immigrants were 'poisoning the blood of our country.' This rhetoric has been criticized for its dehumanizing nature and its potential to incite violence.
Moreover, Trump's actions have given many cause for concern. He has often expressed a desire for vengeance against foes and critics, suggesting he would use the FBI and Department of Justice for politically motivated investigations. At his rallies, he has repeatedly declared, 'I am your retribution.' This kind of rhetoric has led many to fear that Trump would seek retribution against military critics if he regains power.
Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper has also echoed these concerns. In an interview, Esper mentioned that Trump had discussed recalling and court-martialing retired high-ranking officers who had openly criticized him. This sentiment was further underscored by Trump's verbal attacks on figures like William McRaven, the former admiral behind the operation that resulted in Osama bin Laden's death.
3. The Impact on National Security
The implications of Trump's potential return to power are far-reaching and deeply concerning for national security. Milley's fear of being court-martialed if Trump wins is not just a personal concern but also reflects broader anxieties about the rule of law and the military's role in upholding it.
Since his retirement last year, Milley has faced a relentless stream of death threats. He has taken significant personal precautions, including installing bulletproof glass and blast-proof curtains in his residence. This situation underscores the toxic environment that can be created by authoritarian rhetoric and actions.
Additionally, Trump's past actions have demonstrated a disregard for democratic norms and institutions. His attempts to cling to power following his electoral defeat in 2020 and his incitement of violence on January 6, 2021, have left many questioning his commitment to democratic principles.
4. The Role of Fascist Ideology in Trump's Rhetoric
Robert Paxton, a leading authority on fascism, initially hesitated to label Trump as a fascist during his ascent to the presidency in 2016. However, following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, Paxton revised his stance. He stated that Trump's blatant disregard for civic norms and his attempts to overturn the election results crossed a red line, making the fascist label both necessary and acceptable.
Trump's rhetoric has often echoed fascist ideologies by dehumanizing certain groups and promoting a sense of urgency around perceived threats. His recent proposal to deport Venezuelans and his vow to use the Alien Enemies Act to expedite their expulsion are examples of this kind of rhetoric.
During a rally in Aurora, Colorado, Trump unveiled an extensive initiative aimed at deporting Venezuelans whom he accused of having 'infected' a once tranquil city. He declared that once in office, he would initiate 'Operation Aurora' at the federal level to accelerate the expulsion of these gangs. This kind of language is reminiscent of fascist regimes that often target minority groups as scapegoats for societal problems.
5. The Broader Context: Trump's Impact on Democracy
The impact of Trump's presidency on democracy has been multifaceted and far-reaching. His attempts to undermine institutions and his willingness to use authoritarian tactics have left many concerned about the future of democratic governance in the United States.
Mitt Romney, a former Republican presidential candidate, has also expressed concerns about Trump's behavior. In an interview with The Atlantic, Romney stated that he believed Trump had demonstrated through his previous actions that he could be taken at his word. This sentiment underscores the pervasive fear that Trump's return to power could lead to further erosion of democratic norms.
In conclusion, Mark Milley's fears about Trump's fascist tendencies and potential return to power are deeply rooted in his experiences during Trump's presidency and the broader implications for national security and democratic stability. The ongoing debate about Trump's role in American politics highlights the need for vigilance in protecting democratic institutions from authoritarian threats.
