A group of retired US military officials endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her fit to be commander in chief and criticizing Donald Trump as a threat to national security. The officials, including Retired General Larry Ellis and Retired Rear Admiral Michael Smith, highlighted Trump's chaotic approach to Afghanistan and his derogatory comments about the military. They praised Harris's ability to handle national security challenges, contrasting her competence with Trump's failures.
A group of 10 retired top US military officials endorsed US Vice President Kamala Harris in a letter made public on Monday, naming her the only presidential candidate fit to serve as the nation's commander in chief and calling her Republican rival
Donald Trump a danger to national security and democracy.
Signatories including Retired General Larry Ellis and Retired Rear Admiral Michael Smith cited Trump's derogatory comments about the military and his 'chaotic approach' to the
Afghanistan withdrawal, involving a deal with the Taliban that returned 5,000 fighters to the battlefield.
In contrast, the officials praised Harris for her competence in handling national security issues, from Russia's invasion of Ukraine to Indo-Pacific tensions with China.
The letter, shared on X by Harris' campaign, underscores her capability as the best candidate for commander in chief.
The endorsement coincides with a new Harris campaign ad and comes ahead of a congressional gold medal ceremony honoring the 13 service members killed during the
Afghanistan withdrawal, an event Trump and Republicans have attempted to blame on Harris.
The retired officials blame Trump for failing to take responsibility for his role in the withdrawal mess.