Senator Questions Military Orders During Protests
Senator Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat from Michigan, broached the topic of U.S. military involvement in recent protests but focused on a non-existent order about armed, peaceful protesters. She pressed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding whether he had instructed the military to use deadly force against unarmed demonstrators, referencing insights from former Defense Secretary Mark Esper’s memoir.
In her questioning, Slotkin cited claims from Esper, where he suggested that President Trump had contemplated using live ammunition on protesters. Hegseth advised caution in interpreting Esper’s assertions, especially noting the importance of distinguishing credible information from entertainment. He said, “You need to be wary of what you read in books, aside from the Bible.”
Slotkin expressed her concerns about the military’s integrity, emphasizing her dedication to non-political military forces. She articulated skepticism about the potential consequences of politicizing the armed forces, reflecting on her past service alongside military personnel. She poignantly asked Hegseth if he had issued any orders for the use of lethal force against protesters, hoping his answer would be an unequivocal “no.”
Hegseth maintained that Slotkin needed to question the reliability of sources she consulted, referring again to Esper’s book. Meanwhile, the situation has escalated in California, where protest-related riots have prompted significant military deployment. President Trump has sent over 2,000 National Guard troops and approximately 700 U.S. Marines to manage the unrest following immigration enforcement actions.
Protesters in Los Angeles have engaged in acts of violence, leading to clashes with law enforcement. The police responded with flashbangs and tear gas in attempts to control the situation, particularly around federal buildings. There are reports of growing tensions in areas across the city as demonstrators gather.
Despite California’s efforts to stop the deployment of the National Guard, a federal judge recently dismissed their request, underscoring the ongoing conflict between state and federal authorities during these protests.
