Once again, former President Trump has stirred controversy with his remarks about veterans after drawing a comparison between the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Medal of Honor. At a recent event at his Bedminster, N.J., estate, Trump discussed his decision to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to GOP donor Miriam Adelson in 2018, describing it as “the highest award you can get as a civilian.”
He further remarked that this civilian honor was “the equivalent of the Congressional Medal of Honor,” though he claimed it was superior because its recipients are not necessarily “in very bad shape” or deceased, as many Medal of Honor recipients are.
Trump’s campaign defends his comments, highlighting his support for veterans and military families
Trump’s comments quickly spread across social media, prompting criticism from Democrats and his opponents. Kamala Harris’s campaign spokesperson, Sarafina Chitika, condemned Trump’s remarks, pointing out his history of disparaging veterans and calling for his exclusion from future leadership roles.
Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), a former Navy captain, criticized Trump on social media, emphasizing that the Medal of Honor is awarded posthumously to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, such as risking their lives to protect others.
In response to the backlash, Trump’s campaign defended him, with Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) arguing that Trump’s comments were not meant to belittle military honors but to express admiration for Adelson. Vance, a Marine Corps veteran, emphasized Trump’s support for veterans.
Trump’s campaign spokesperson accused Harris of hypocrisy, citing the Biden administration’s handling of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, which resulted in the deaths of 13 American soldiers. They argued that Trump’s administration had a strong record on military support and criticized Harris for her role in the Afghanistan withdrawal.
Trump, who often boasts about strengthening the military during his presidency, has faced ongoing criticism for his comments about veterans, including his mockery of late Sen. John McCain and his contentious remarks about Gold Star families and fallen soldiers. The Trump campaign has attempted to shift the focus by attacking his opponents on military issues.
