Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, who used to work for Trump, stated on Tuesday that former military leaders should steer clear of discussing presidential immunity as it pertains to ex-President Trump.
“I would rather not see ex-admirals and generals getting involved in these matters,” explained Esper. said He made these remarks during an appearance on “CNN This Morning” with anchor Kasie Hunt.
Esper’s remarks come after a group of retired four-star generals, admirals, and other former military leaders filed a Supreme Court amicus brief on Monday, expressing their opposition to the ex-president’s immunity claims in criminal cases. In their brief, the former military leaders stated that Trump’s claims “would threaten the military’s role in American society, our nation’s constitutional order, and our national security.”
“The idea of such immunity, in general, and specifically in terms of the potential negation of election results, poses a risk to our nation’s security and international leadership,” the brief stated. “Especially during times like the present, when anti-democratic, authoritarian regimes are increasing worldwide, such a threat is unacceptable and perilous.”
Hunt also noted Esper also addressed an argument previously put forth by Trump’s legal team, suggesting that a president could order SEAL Team Six to eliminate a political opponent and avoid prosecution due to broad immunity from criminal prosecution.
“The hypothetical scenario of SEAL Team Six being employed to eliminate… is simply absurd,” Esper replied. “So, I — look, the President, in my opinion, does not have that kind of immunity.”
Esper, who is now a frequent critic of Trump, has stated that he will not vote for his former boss but has also seemed unwilling to commit to voting for President Biden said “I’m not ready yet,” Esper mentioned after being asked by comedian Bill Maher on his HBO show, “Real Time with Bill Maher,” if he would vote for the current president. “I’m definitely not voting for [former President Trump], but I’m not there yet.”
Former Trump Defense Secretary Mark Esper said former military leaders should not get involved in the debate over presidential immunity as it relates to former President Trump Tuesday. “I would prefer to see retired admirals and generals not get involved in these issues,” Esper said on “CNN This Morning” with anchor Kasie Hunt. Esper’s comments…
