Staff Reports
In what can only be described as a masterclass in political confrontation, Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana took retired Army Major General Randy Manner to task over his disparaging remarks regarding President Trump and his supporters. Manner, who seems to have traded in his military honor for a Democrat talking points handbook, found himself in hot water during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing focused on the Trump administration’s anticipated crackdown on criminal illegal aliens.
Manner’s opening statement included a bizarre notion that it is not the military’s role to enforce immigration policy. This misguided thinking positions the military more as peaceful bystanders in the face of what can only be called an invasion rather than as protectors of the American people. Unsurprisingly, Kennedy wasn’t having any of it. He boldly confronted Manner on his prior commentary, wherein he proclaimed that Trump supporters were akin to “fascists.” In a world ripe for reasoned debate, Manner’s rhetorical missteps painted him as yet another misinformed general echoing the liberal elite’s disdain for common patriots.
Senator John Kennedy confronts Army Maj. Gen. Randy Manner over his past comments calling President-elect Trump and his supporters "fascists."
"You think you’re smarter than the American people, don’t you?” pic.twitter.com/tCKuBuzof3
— Rusty (@Rusty_Weiss) December 11, 2024
The Senator, well-known for his entertaining skirmishes in these hearings, seized the opportunity to dissect Manner’s past glorification of General Mark Milley—yes, the very same Milley who deemed Trump a “fascist” while displaying stunning career misjudgments of his own. Kennedy’s pointed inquiries forced Manner to defend his questionable assertions, leaving audiences wondering whether these military elites believe they are somehow smarter or more virtuous than everyday Americans. The lack of self-awareness shown by Manner was striking, as he seemed more focused on dodging questioning than engaging in sincere dialogue.
Amidst the heated exchange, Manner insisted that it wasn’t the right time to discuss his previous comments. Kennedy, however, persisted, challenging the general’s apparent superiority complex, suggesting he thinks he’s somehow above the common citizen. The back-and-forth escalated when Manner expressed indignation over Kennedy’s probing inquiries, claiming to be insulted. To the keen observer, this was just a thin veil for avoiding accountability. If military figures can’t bear to face scrutiny for their unhinged remarks, perhaps they should reconsider their public statements altogether.
Kennedy’s relentless questioning revealed a deeper hypocrisy in Manner’s rhetoric. A supposed man of honor seemed to display anything but when discussing critical issues affecting national security. Displaying a blatant ignorance regarding the military’s role in enforcing laws, Manner’s rhetoric suggests that he views the National Guard as an “extension” of political whims rather than as a crucial instrument for safeguarding American interests.
The encounter raises a glaring question: How did the military come to be infiltrated by individuals whose reasoning appears more suited to radical college campuses than to the hallowed halls of service? With representatives like Manner, it’s no wonder the American people are left scratching their heads, wondering whether their armed forces are committed to the defense of liberty or merely acting as instruments for political posturing. The clash between Kennedy and Manner serves as a wake-up call, reminding conservatives everywhere that it’s high time to hold such figures accountable for their bizarre and dangerous ideas.
