In a new book by journalist Bob Woodward, it has been revealed that General Mark Milley, a top US Army general, has described former President Donald Trump as a “fascist to the core” and the “most dangerous person to this country.” Milley, who was appointed by Trump as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, expressed his concerns about Trump’s impact on the United States. He particularly emphasized his worries about a potential second term for Trump.
According to Woodward, Milley was deeply alarmed following the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol by supporters of the then-president. The general felt compelled to meet with the newly-appointed attorney general, Merrick Garland, urging him to investigate domestic violent extremism and far-right militia movements. Milley believed that Trump continued to pose a significant threat to the country, even after leaving office.
In March 2023, during a meeting with Woodward at the Willard Hotel in Washington, DC, Milley reiterated his concerns about Trump. He expressed that Trump was the most dangerous person ever to the country, labelling him as a “total fascist.” Milley’s private comments to Woodward shed light on his worries about the former president’s character and intentions.
Publicly, at his retirement ceremony in September 2023, Milley made cutting remarks that seemed to indirectly reference Trump. Without mentioning Trump by name, he emphasised the US military’s commitment to the Constitution and the ideals of the country. Milley stated that the military does not pledge allegiance to any individual, highlighting the importance of upholding American values.
Milley’s strong words towards Trump, both privately to Woodward and publicly at his retirement ceremony, underscore the deep concerns he harbours about the former president. His assessment of Trump as a “fascist to the core” and the “most dangerous person to this country” reveals the gravity of his apprehensions about the impact of Trump’s leadership on the nation.