John Kelly, the former chief of staff to President Donald Trump, has described Trump’s leadership style as “dictatorial” and “fascist” in recent interviews, criticizing his lack of empathy. This commentary has been seized upon by Vice President Kamala Harris as she aims to attract moderate Republicans and independents in crucial swing states, framing Trump as a danger to democracy.
Harris asserted, “The bottom line is this, we know what Donald Trump wants — he wants unchecked power. The question, in 13 days, will be what do the American people want?” She is referring to the upcoming Election Day on November 5.
In an interview with The New York Times, Kelly stated that Trump aligns with the general definition of fascism, labeling him as “certainly an authoritarian” who admires dictators. He also mentioned that Trump has made disparaging remarks about service members who have been injured or killed in the line of duty.
In response, a spokesperson for Trump’s campaign, Steven Cheung, dismissed Kelly’s claims as fabricated, claiming that the former president has consistently honored the military’s service and sacrifice.
Harris has been leveraging the public opposition from former Trump officials to encourage moderate Republicans to support her candidacy. During a town hall, Trump downplayed the dissent from his former staff, saying only a “small number” have chosen not to back him.
Several former officials, including Trump’s former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, ex-Vice President Mike Pence, and national security adviser John Bolton, have criticized Trump’s leadership since he left office.
Recent comments from Trump regarding the use of the military against domestic adversaries prompted Kelly to voice his concerns. Reports indicate that during his time as chief of staff, Kelly frequently corrected Trump on his understanding of historical figures like Hitler in context to military management.