House Armed Services Vice Chair Highlights National Security Threats Following Dismissal Of Defense Secretary Esper

House Armed Services Committee Vice Chair Anthony G. Brown (MD-04) released the following statement on President Trump's decision to remove Secretary of Defense Mark Esper from his position:

"As our country transitions between presidential administrations, we continue to face threats abroad including global uncertainty brought on by the pandemic, increasingly sophisticated terror networks and emboldened authoritarians. A well-functioning Department of Defense is essential to countering these forces. Additionally, the Department will play a critical role in COVID-19 vaccine distribution. Introducing turmoil within the Pentagon complicates both planning and execution needed to protect this country and public health.

"With his days numbered, President Trump has made yet another chaotic national security decision that makes us less safe. It is incredibly telling that one of the last things Secretary Esper worked on, before being terminated, was ensuring our military stopped honoring traitors and those who betray our values. Our civilian defense officials and our military should never be politicized and must continue to perform their duties and meet their mission as we peacefully transfer power."

Source