The nonpartisan, professionalized military in the United States is often overlooked, but it serves as one of the most critical institutional pillars of democracy. Amid concerns about American imperialism, military-industrial influence, and jingoism, it’s easy to forget how the U.S. military has generally remained free of partisan influence.
It has maintained a highly educated officer corps that upholds continuity and professional judgment, regardless of political leadership. This stability has been a hallmark of the military’s role in the democratic process.
However, former President Donald Trump has shown a desire to undermine this tradition. Trump has made it clear that he aims to reshape the military into one that is more subservient to his authority. His circle includes extreme right-wing figures like Pete Hegseth, his nominee for Pentagon secretary, who represent this vision of a military that prioritizes loyalty over professional standards. This push to politicize the military is part of Trump’s broader strategy to erode democratic institutions that could challenge his power.
Trump’s efforts to politicize the military reflect a broader threat to democratic norms, which includes retribution, corruption, and destruction. The most significant concern is the potential destruction of the military’s professionalism, leading to a system where officers are afraid to speak truth to power, as seen in authoritarian regimes like Russia.
Trump’s Efforts to Politicize the U.S. Military Raise Concerns About Democracy and Stability
Trump’s actions could destabilize military leadership, as new presidents might distrust generals selected through a politicized process, further eroding the military’s capacity to serve the country effectively.
This concern about Trump’s militarization was highlighted in a recent article by Don Moynihan, a professor of public policy. He warns that Trump’s plan to purge the military could have disastrous consequences both in the short and long term.
If the military becomes politicized, future presidents may avoid trusting the generals in place, leading to a cycle of instability. The result could be a militarized environment where officers are hesitant to offer honest assessments, undermining the military’s core function of protecting the nation’s democratic principles.
In the broader political sphere, Trump continues to surround himself with loyalists, such as Kimberly Guilfoyle, his son Donald Trump Jr.’s fiancée, who has been nominated as ambassador to Greece.
His nominations reflect his continued efforts to reward personal loyalty over qualifications. At the same time, figures like Tom Barrack, once acquitted of lobbying charges, are being considered for high-profile diplomatic roles, signaling an ongoing focus on loyalty over expertise.
Meanwhile, Republican senators face pressure from Trump’s supporters to back his nominations, despite growing concerns about the implications of such appointments. Heritage Action is leading a campaign to push GOP senators to align with Trump’s agenda, especially regarding military and judicial nominations.
While many senators remain wary of opposing Trump due to the political repercussions, a few may emerge as key figures in the ongoing struggle for control within the Republican Party. In the background, issues such as the ongoing legal battles and controversies surrounding the Trump family, including allegations of corruption and the continuing fallout from the January 6th insurrection, continue to play out.
