Former White House chief of staff John Kelly has made shocking claims about Donald Trump’s admiration for Adolf Hitler, raising concerns as the former president campaigns for re-election. Kelly, who served under Trump from 2017 to 2019, alleges that Trump repeatedly praised the Nazi dictator during private conversations in the White House.
Trump’s Praise for Hitler
According to Kelly, Trump once said, “Hitler did some good things too,” revealing the former president’s admiration for the fascist leader. Kelly described Trump as someone who “fits into the general definition of fascist” and prefers a dictatorial style of governance. This is not the first time concerns about Trump’s authoritarian tendencies have been raised by those close to him, but Kelly’s accusations are particularly significant given his high-ranking position in Trump’s administration.
A Dangerous Admiration
Kelly recalled a conversation in which Trump expressed his desire for loyal military generals, similar to those who served Hitler. Kelly was reportedly taken aback and questioned Trump on whether he meant the generals of Bismarck or Hitler. Trump confirmed that he was referring to Hitler’s generals, despite being told about the plot against Hitler and the eventual forced suicide of General Rommel, one of Hitler’s top commanders.
Kelly’s revelations add to a growing list of accusations from former Trump aides who have questioned his leadership style and decision-making abilities. The general’s comments are particularly alarming as they come just weeks before the US election, raising questions about how Trump would govern if re-elected.
Harris Reacts Strongly
US Vice President Kamala Harris has seized on Kelly’s statements, calling them deeply troubling and warning of the dangers posed by Trump’s authoritarian inclinations. Harris pointed out that Trump does not want a military loyal to the Constitution but one that is personally loyal to him. She cited Kelly’s remarks as evidence of Trump’s intent to use the military against American citizens and critics.
Harris’s comments echo concerns raised by other senior figures, including General Mark Milley, who called Trump a “fascist to the core.” Milley, like Kelly, served under Trump but later became one of his fiercest critics.
Allegations of Disrespect for Veterans
Kelly also repeated claims that Trump referred to fallen soldiers as “losers and suckers,” further tarnishing the former president’s image. These allegations, previously reported by The Atlantic, have been repeatedly denied by Trump’s campaign. Trump’s adviser, Alex Pfeiffer, dismissed Kelly’s comments as “absolutely false,” while his communications director, Steven Cheung, accused Kelly of suffering from “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”
The Political Impact
With just two weeks left before the US election, these revelations could have a significant impact on Trump’s campaign. Polls show a tight race in key swing states, and Kelly’s statements could sway undecided voters. Harris has used the allegations to emphasise the importance of preventing Trump from gaining unchecked power, warning that individuals like Kelly would not be there to restrain Trump’s worst impulses in a second term.
As both Trump and Harris vie for votes in battleground states, the allegations surrounding Trump’s admiration for Hitler are likely to dominate headlines in the final days leading up to the election.
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