Former White House Chief of Staff John Kelly has reignited the political discourse with startling allegations about former President Donald Trump, revealing that Trump had expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler during his presidency. Kelly, a retired Marine Corps general who served under Trump from 2017 to 2019, disclosed in interviews with The New York Times and The Atlantic that the former president frequently praised the Nazi dictator, even suggesting that Hitler “did some good things.”
John Kelly’s comments come just two weeks before the 2024 presidential election, casting a shadow over Trump’s bid for a second term. According to Kelly, Trump’s admiration for Hitler extended to a desire for “German generals,” with Trump referring specifically to Hitler’s military commanders. Kelly tried to steer Trump’s comments away from the Nazi regime, but Trump persisted. “Yeah, yeah, Hitler’s generals,” he allegedly replied when pressed about his statement. Trump has since denied the claims, dismissing Kelly’s account as fabricated on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Kelly, who has been a vocal critic of Trump since leaving the White House, also recalled Trump’s discontent with the constraints of his power, revealing that Trump yearned for dictatorial control. Kelly warned that if re-elected, Trump would likely govern with fewer restraints and a heightened disregard for legal boundaries, labeling Trump a fascist by definition.
Harris Speaks Out: Trump as a Fascist
Vice President Kamala Harris swiftly reacted to John Kelly’s revelations, declaring that Trump is indeed a fascist. Speaking at a CNN town hall, Harris underscored the gravity of Kelly’s statements, describing them as a “911 call to the American people.” Harris emphasized the danger Trump poses to American democracy, stating, “Donald Trump is a danger to the well-being and security of the United States of America.” She highlighted how Trump’s admiration for dictators, including his comparisons to Hitler, reflects his desire for personal loyalty from the military rather than allegiance to the U.S. Constitution.
Harris reiterated her concerns about Trump’s potential return to office, stating that he would no longer be tempered by officials who could restrain his worst impulses. John Kelly’s warnings, according to Harris, provided a clear view of Trump’s true nature as someone who prefers authoritarian rule and sees himself above constitutional limitations.
The Vice President also pointed to past criticisms from other former Trump officials, such as retired Army Gen. Mark A. Milley and retired Gen. Jim Mattis, both of whom have described Trump as a threat to the nation’s security. Harris urged voters to take these warnings seriously as they head to the polls, framing the election as a critical moment for the future of American democracy.
Veteran Voices and Political Responses
Despite the serious allegations, many Trump supporters remain unfazed. In swing states, polls show a tight race, with Trump’s base largely standing by him. Some veterans, a key demographic in Trump’s voter base, have dismissed Kelly’s revelations. Jim Lytner, a veteran advocate from Nevada, shrugged off Kelly’s warnings, praising Trump’s first term in office. “Kelly didn’t have anything good to say about Trump. He ought to have his butt kicked,” Lytner said.
Meanwhile, Chris Sununu, the Republican governor of New Hampshire, downplayed John Kelly’s comments, describing them as “par for the course” when it comes to Trump. While Sununu has been critical of Trump in the past, he confirmed his plan to vote for the former president in the upcoming election.
As the election nears, Harris’ campaign is leaning on the voices of military veterans and officials who have worked with Trump to sway undecided voters, particularly independents. Retired Army Brig. Gen. Steve Anderson, who has publicly opposed Trump, noted that many who worked closest to Trump are now among his staunchest critics, calling for voters to heed their warnings.
