To the editor:
I’d like to commend ML Cavanaugh for his dedication and service to our military. However, placing trust in Donald Trump to uphold and defend the Constitution against all adversaries—both foreign and domestic—is a stretch. During his time in office, the Washington Post reported that he told over 30,000 falsehoods. He also ordered the assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, which led to significant injuries to American military members. His actions incited the infamous January 6th riot, and he has been found guilty of 34 felonies.
On July 1, the Supreme Court essentially mirrored Richard Nixon’s infamous sentiment, “If the president does it, it’s not illegal,” by granting Trump immunity for “official acts” during his presidency. This decision raises a troubling question: what if Trump, due to a perceived threat, retaliation, or misjudgment, orders a nuclear attack? Would the Air Force commandant be obligated to comply? Since the Supreme Court’s decision, any order from him could no longer be deemed illegal.
If Donald J. Trump assumes office on January 20th, the rule of law and the Constitution may become mere relics. He would have the unfettered power to imprison his so-called “enemies” and even execute military generals who defy his directives.
Craig Simmons, Northridge
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To the editor:
It’s almost predictable, just as Republican senators turned a blind eye and refused to convict Trump during his impeachment, that factions within the military may uphold unlawful orders. There will undoubtedly be generals like Michael Flynn and military attorneys willing to comply with Trump’s commands, paralleling the rank and file members who share his beliefs.
Trump has already laid the groundwork for this scenario with the establishment of a commission intended to remove dissenting generals from the military ranks.
Douglas Evenson, Helendale
