Mark Esper calls Trump an ‘enemy within’
Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper called Trump a threat to national security and labeled him an "enemy within." Esper criticized Trump’s erratic leadership, particularly regarding military matters, stating that Trump’s decisions often undermined the stability and integrity of the United States. According to Esper, Trump's tendency to prioritize personal interests over national security created dangerous situations during his time in office.
Esper pointed to specific incidents, such as Trump's efforts to use the military in domestic situations, like the 2020 protests, which Esper and other military leaders opposed. These moves were seen as politically motivated and risked damaging the apolitical standing of the military. His warnings echo those of other former Trump officials, including General Mark Milley, who have also raised alarms about Trump’s unpredictable behavior and disregard for democratic norms.
In his remarks, Esper emphasized that allowing Trump back into the White House could pose an even greater risk to national security, as Trump’s refusal to abide by legal and ethical constraints would likely intensify. Esper’s comments contribute to the growing chorus of former officials voicing deep concerns about Trump’s fitness for office and the dangers his leadership style could pose to American democracy.
CNN
