The Pentagon under the Trump administration highlighted a viral video featuring a military member, which coincided with the administration’s immigration policies. The individual did not appear to represent U.S. military sentiment amid protests against Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) occurring nationwide.
In the footage, the woman in uniform declared, “we are not pawns on Donald Trump’s agenda.”
She elaborated, stating, “the military stands in opposition to the protesters. We serve the American people and uphold the Constitution, honoring our oath of service. These constitutional rights are being stripped away and outright denied. The Army will not act as a pawn for that.”
She later expressed that they have a “moral obligation” to resist these actions.
The Department of Defense responded to the criticism, noting that the woman was discharged from the Texas National Guard on June 5, 2020, and stating that her remarks do not reflect the military’s perspective. The statement continued, “This individual served in the U.S. Army from November 2010 until August 2014 and was in the Army reserves from August 2014 to June 2020.”
In the viral video, the woman did not address the circumstances regarding ICE arrests. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been actively highlighting specific cases, particularly in Los Angeles, where protests against ICE have arisen. According to DHS, some of those arrested have criminal backgrounds that include offenses like sexual assault, grand theft, child abuse, and drug violations.
Related – “f*ck Ice”: Left-wing protesters flood Los Angeles as National Guard defends Ice Detention Center
DHS Deputy Director Tricia McLaughlin questioned whether Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass prioritize the interests of violent criminals and illegal aliens over their citizens’ safety. She contended that the demonstrators are essentially advocating for the release of rapists, murderers, and other violent offenders onto the streets of Los Angeles.
Related – Trump: Los Angeles will be “burning on the ground” without the National Guard
