Former National Security Leaders Rally Behind Kamala Harris as Concerns Grow Over Trump’s Possible Return
In a notable development in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, a significant coalition of former national security officials, including myself, has officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president. As we approach this pivotal election, many of us are increasingly alarmed about the prospect of Donald Trump regaining the presidency. His past actions have shaken the foundations of trust within the military community, and with the world at such a precarious juncture, our nation needs a leader who embodies competence, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to both service members and democracy.
Harris has earned this endorsement through her impressive track record in handling complex national security issues. From building strong alliances to counter Russian aggression in Ukraine to addressing China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to navigate difficult waters. Notably, Harris has championed advancements in critical areas like space and artificial intelligence, making it clear she’s prepared to lead us into the future.
Beyond her impressive qualifications, Harris’s dedication to the nation’s service members and veterans sets her apart from her predecessor. From her meetings with troops stationed across the globe to her unwavering support for military families, Harris has shown she understands the challenges faced by those who defend our freedoms. She prioritizes honoring the commitments owed to veterans, ensuring they retain access to the benefits they rightfully earned.
In contrast, Trump’s relationship with veterans has been rocky at best. His insensitive comments toward Gold Star families and bizarre suggestion to replace military leaders with sports coaches have not gone unnoticed. Moreover, as confirmed by retired Marine Corps Gen. John Kelly, Trump’s derogatory remarks about servicemen who died in combat have left a lasting scar on his credibility. It’s as if he’s forgetful of the sacrifices made by brave men and women in uniform.
His mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic further compromised the well-being of military families and the broader American populace. To put it bluntly, it was damaging. Rather than holding true to the principles of leadership, he frequently employed the military as a political tool, most infamously during the infamous events at Lafayette Square.
Recently, Trump’s actions at Arlington National Cemetery sparked outrage as he appeared to politicize a memorial service intended to honor fallen service members. This was more than a mere gaffe; it was emblematic of a troubling trend where the sanctity of military service is overshadowed by political posturing.
As we look ahead to a potential second Trump term, the stakes could not be higher. A concerning precedent was set on January 6, 2021, when Trump incited a mob to storm the Capitol in a disturbing attempt to thwart the peaceful transfer of power. That day left many of us in the military community shocked and disillusioned, as dedicated professionals committed to safeguarding democracy watched as foundational values were trampled.
With a world more unstable than ever, we cannot afford a leader who poses a significant risk to both our national security and the integrity of our democratic processes. The founding relationship between civilian leadership and the military must remain strong. It’s imperative that our leaders uphold the Constitution, not discard it as a mere inconvenience.
That is why I, alongside numerous former national security leaders, urge our fellow veterans and all Americans to support Kamala Harris in the upcoming election. The time has come to ensure our nation’s future is safeguarded by a leader who respects the sacrifices of our service members and consistently champions democratic values.
In closing, this isn’t just about a candidate or a party; it’s about the future of our nation and the moral responsibility we have to protect our democracy. We cannot afford to turn back the clock; as we know too well, Trump is not just a disaster waiting to happen—he is a disaster that has already happened.
Adm. Steve Abbot spent 34 years in the U.S. Navy, retiring as deputy commander in chief of U.S. European Command. He also served as deputy Homeland Security Adviser to President George W. Bush and as president of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.
