New disclosures show how Gen. Mark A. Milley tried to check Trump. They could also further politicize the military.

September 18, 2021

“This is a Reichstag moment,” Milley told others, referring to the 1933 attack on the German parliament, the book reported. Chairmen, who usually keep their military advice to the president confidential, typically keep a low profile and are little known outside government circles. A former senior official said Trump was fascinated by Milley’s medals and “tough guy” swagger. Trump later said he picked Milley to spite Mattis, who has since criticized his former boss. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla) demanded Milley resign, as did Christopher Miller, who served alongside Milley as acting defense secretary in the final months of Trump’s presidency.