The scrutiny surrounding former President Donald Trump's relationship with the U.S. military has intensified, with recent commentary highlighting alarming parallels to fascism. According to a piece by Paul Thornton in the Los Angeles Times, retired Marine Gen. John F. Kelly, who served as Trump's chief of staff, has described Trump as embodying the characteristics of a fascist leader. Kelly notes that Trump has expressed admiration for historical figures like Hitler, suggesting a desire for generals who would act with similar authoritarianism [ae5a620c].
In addition to his controversial views on military leadership, Trump's historical ignorance has come under fire. He reportedly suggested that President Abraham Lincoln should have negotiated with the South to avoid the Civil War, a statement that raises concerns about his understanding of American history and governance [ae5a620c]. This ignorance, coupled with his admiration for fascist regimes, has led to fears about potential isolationist policies should he regain power.
The article emphasizes the urgency of the upcoming election, which is just 11 days away as of October 26, 2024. Historical evidence warns against electing a president with such troubling views, especially in light of Trump's previous behavior towards the military, including his derogatory remarks about fallen soldiers and his disdain for military families [e8d018fe]. As the election approaches, the state of American democracy remains precarious, with right-wing factions increasingly embracing insurrectionist ideologies, further complicating the political landscape [ae5a620c].