John F. Kelly
General, U.S. Marine Corps (Retired) Independent Former Cabinet
Summary
Trump's longest-serving Chief of Staff who called him a fascist and detailed his admiration for Adolf Hitler.
In Their Own Words
Key Statements
“
Certainly the former president is in the far-right area, he's certainly an authoritarian, admires people who are dictators — he has said that. So he certainly falls into the general definition of fascist, for sure.
“
He said on numerous occasions that Hitler 'did some good things, too.'
Detailing Trump's fascination with Hitler
“
A person that thinks those who defend their country in uniform, or are shot down or seriously wounded in combat, or spend years being tortured as POWs are all 'suckers' because 'there is nothing in it for them.'
Statement confirming reports about Trump's remarks on servicemembers
Timeline
July 31, 2017
Appointed White House Chief of Staff
Became Trump's longest-serving Chief of Staff
January 2, 2019
Left White House
Departed after 18 months of service
October 23, 2024
Called Trump a fascist in interviews reported by AP/PBS
Unprecedented criticism from former Chief of Staff
Why This Matters
Credibility & Background
Positions Held
- White House Chief of Staff (2017-2019)
- Secretary of Homeland Security (2017)
- Commander, U.S. Southern Command (2012-2016)
Awards & Honors
- Defense Distinguished Service Medal
- Silver Star
- Bronze Star
Analysis
Reasons for Opposition
- 01 Believes Trump meets the definition of fascist
- 02 Concerned about Trump's admiration for dictators
- 03 Witnessed Trump's disrespect for military service members
- 04 Saw Trump's lack of understanding of history and rule of law
Documentation
Sources
Transcript October 3, 2023
CNN Newsroom transcript (Oct. 3, 2023) — John Kelly statement on 'suckers' and 'losers'
https://transcripts.cnn.com/show/cnr/date/2023-10-03/segment/22
News October 23, 2024
Trump said Hitler 'did some good things' and wanted generals like the Nazis, former chief of staff Kelly claims
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-said-hitler-did-some-good-things-and-wanted-generals-like-the-nazis-former-chief-of-staff-kelly-claims
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