US General Assures Democracy: ‘Never Received Illegal Order’ Post-Election
In a recent interview that aired on ABC’s “This Week,” Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Mark Milley, addressed concerns regarding his role in the aftermath of the 2020 election. With mounting speculation and rumors about the possibility of former President Trump giving “illegal orders” to retain power, General Milley shed light on his stance and actions during this critical period in American democracy.
A Moment of Uncertainty
The period following the 2020 United States presidential election was marked by turbulence, as President Donald Trump refused to concede and made claims of voter fraud. At the heart of this chaos was a fear that Trump might resort to using the military to maintain his hold on power, which led to a pivotal question posed by ABC’s Martha Raddatz: Was General Milley concerned about receiving an “illegal order” from Trump?
General Milley’s response was clear and resolute. He stated that while he had advocated for alternative courses of action, he had never received an illegal order. This statement carries significant weight, especially given the concerns expressed by top military officials about the potential for a coup in the wake of the 2020 election.
Behind the Scenes: Generals’ Concerns
Reports emerged in the year following the election, suggesting that high-ranking military officials were genuinely worried about Trump’s intentions. “I Alone Can Fix It,” a book by Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker, delves into the generals’ concerns during this tumultuous period. According to the book, General Milley conveyed his firm belief to his deputies, saying, “They may try, but they’re not going to f—— succeed. You can’t do this without the military. You can’t do this without the CIA and the FBI. We’re the guys with the guns.”
This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the mindset of military leadership sheds light on the gravity of the situation. It underscores the importance of individuals within the system who prioritize upholding the rule of law and the democratic process.
Confidence in Democracy
Despite the tumultuous events surrounding the 2020 election and the shocking attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, General Milley expressed his unwavering confidence in the strength of American democracy and its institutions. He stated, “I am confident that the United States, the democracy of this country, will prevail, and the rule of law will prevail. I’m absolutely confident of that. And these institutions are built to be strong and resilient and to adapt to the times, and I’m 100 percent confident we’ll be fine.”
General Milley’s words serve as a reminder that democracy is not solely reliant on the outcome of elections but also on the dedication of individuals within the system to uphold its principles and values. The commitment of those in positions of authority, such as General Milley, to the rule of law and the Constitution played a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of the democratic process.
In the aftermath of a contentious presidential election, concerns about the potential abuse of power and the role of the military loomed large. General Mark Milley’s recent interview provides valuable insights into the mindset of military leadership during this challenging period in American history. His assurance that he never received an illegal order and his confidence in the resilience of American democracy are encouraging reminders of the strength of the nation’s institutions.
As the United States continues to grapple with the legacy of the 2020 election, General Milley’s commitment to upholding the rule of law serves as a beacon of hope. It reinforces the idea that democracy is not merely a system of governance but a shared responsibility that relies on the dedication of individuals like General Milley to ensure its enduring success. In uncertain times, his words remind us that the strength of democracy ultimately lies in the collective commitment to its principles and ideals.