In a bold authoritarian statement, former President Donald Trump suggested he would use the National Guard or even the military to “handle” American citizens who oppose him, portraying them as a major threat to the nation.
During an interview with Maria Bartiromo on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Trump referred to what he called “the enemy from within,” describing dissenters as “sick people” and “radical left lunatics,” terms he often uses for his Democratic opponents.
“They should be easily handled by, if necessary, the National Guard, or if really necessary, the military,” he stated.
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Trump’s remarks follow a rally he held in Coachella, California, a state known for its Democratic leanings, where he saw a heckler removed before continuing his usual criticism of immigration policies. His comments raise concerns about his authoritarian tendencies, suggesting a willingness to suppress dissent with force if he regains power.
These remarks also come as Trump faces scrutiny over his health and age, especially after recent speeches that some have described as rambling and incoherent. Vice President Kamala Harris has capitalized on this scrutiny, challenging Trump by publicly releasing her medical information and inviting voters to evaluate his mental fitness for office.
Harris is currently campaigning in North Carolina, where she attended a church service and planned a rally in Greenville.
As the political landscape evolves, new national polls show a tightening race, with the Democrats’ narrow lead increasingly at risk. Trump’s comments heighten concerns about his readiness to use authoritarian measures against perceived internal threats if he returns to the Oval Office.
Watch the clip below from Fox News:
Trump to Bartiromo on what worries him about election day: "I think the bigger problem is the enemy from within … sick people, radical left lunatics. And it should be easily handled by, if necessary, by National Guard, or if really necessary, by the military." pic.twitter.com/twRsilNJnz
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) October 13, 2024