Trump’s Startling Hitler Comments
John Kelly, former White House Chief of Staff, has made explosive claims about Donald Trump’s time in office, describing the former president as a “literal fascist.” Kelly detailed instances where Trump praised Adolf Hitler, suggesting that Hitler “did a lot of good things.” According to Kelly, Trump made these remarks in 2018 during a trip to Europe for the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I.
Kelly was reportedly shocked by Trump’s remarks, which included praise for Germany’s economic recovery under Hitler. Trump’s comment was met with immediate criticism from Kelly, who reminded the then-president of the horrific consequences of Hitler’s policies, particularly the Nazi genocide. Kelly said, “You cannot ever say anything supportive of Adolf Hitler. You just can’t.”
Despite this correction, Trump remained undeterred, reportedly dismissing Kelly’s admonitions.
Historical Ignorance and Fascist Tendencies
Kelly’s remarks about Trump’s admiration for Hitler weren’t isolated. He went on to describe Trump’s general “stunning disregard for history.” Kelly noted that during his tenure in the White House, he often had to correct Trump’s simplistic and sometimes troubling views of complex historical topics, including slavery, Jim Crow, and World War I alliances.
Kelly also argued that Trump’s authoritarian tendencies were evident in his desire to subvert democratic institutions. He compared Trump’s idolization of Hitler to his efforts to influence the Department of Justice, attack independent media, and delegitimize U.S. election results. Kelly stated, “The definition of fascism includes the desire to concentrate power and control dissent — exactly what I saw in Trump.”
Kelly’s Break with Trump
John Kelly, a retired Marine general, initially joined the Trump administration with hopes of bringing discipline and order to a chaotic White House. However, his tenure as Chief of Staff was marked by escalating tensions with Trump. Over time, Kelly grew increasingly disillusioned, especially after witnessing what he described as Trump’s fascination with autocratic leaders and his lack of empathy towards marginalized communities.
During interviews, Kelly emphasized his growing sense of moral responsibility to speak out against Trump’s behavior. “It became clear to me that he [Trump] wanted not to lead a democracy but to control it — not as a servant of the people, but as an authoritarian figure.”
Trump’s Denials and Ongoing Fallout
Trump has vehemently denied Kelly’s accusations, dismissing them as part of an ongoing “witch hunt” by former insiders looking to profit from false narratives. Despite Trump’s denials, these allegations are adding fuel to ongoing public debates about his suitability for public office as he campaigns for a return to the presidency in 2024.
These comments come at a time when Trump’s reputation is already under intense scrutiny due to numerous legal battles and other damaging revelations. Kelly’s comments are yet another blow that highlights the deep divisions within the former president’s own administration.
Wider Implications
John Kelly’s revelations serve as a powerful reminder of the internal dysfunction and the moral dilemmas faced by some of Trump’s senior aides. With these latest comments, Kelly has reignited concerns over Trump’s authoritarian inclinations and his admiration for autocrats.
As the former president prepares for another run at the White House, these revelations may force voters to reconsider what kind of leadership they want for the United States. Kelly’s testimony underscores that the debate over Trump’s character and intentions remains very much alive.