Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff · Trump and Biden Administrations · 2019-2023

Mark A. Milley

General, U.S. Army (Retired) Independent Military Leader
Summary

The nation's highest-ranking military officer who called Trump 'fascist to the core' and 'the most dangerous person to this country.'

In Their Own Words

Key Statements

Trump is a 'fascist to the core' and 'the most dangerous person to this country.'
October 12, 2024 · The Washington Post
He's a total fascist. He is now the most dangerous person to this country.
October 11, 2024 · The Guardian
Assessment after Trump's post-2020 election behavior
I had my 'suspicions' about Trump's mental decline but eventually came to the realization that 'he's a total fascist.'
October 11, 2024 · The Guardian

Timeline

September 30, 2019

Appointed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Became highest-ranking U.S. military officer

January 6, 2021

January 6 Capitol Attack

Deeply concerned about Trump's actions

September 30, 2023

Retired from military

Completed 43 years of service

October 12, 2024

Revealed assessment in Woodward book reports

Unprecedented warning from former top military official

Why This Matters

Credibility & Background

Background

Four-star Army general with over 40 years of service, served under Trump and Biden

Positions Held

  • Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (2019-2023)
  • Chief of Staff of the Army (2015-2019)
  • Commander, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command (2013)

Awards & Honors

  • Defense Distinguished Service Medal
  • Distinguished Service Medal
  • Bronze Star Medal
Analysis

Reasons for Opposition

  1. 01 Believes Trump is a fascist threat to democracy
  2. 02 Deeply concerned about Trump's mental state
  3. 03 Witnessed dangerous behavior after 2020 election
  4. 04 Feared being court-martialed if Trump won in 2024
Electoral Position

Strongly opposed Trump's return to office

View All Critics

Explore the full list of Republican officials, military leaders, and former staff who have spoken out against Trump.